Have you ever thought about creating a self-care jar to add sprinkles of joy, happiness, and wellness to your summer? If not, then today is your lucky day. Self-care is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. As Black women, we often find ourselves nurturing others and not taking enough time for ourselves. As stated previously, self-care is the key to being the best version of yourself and living your best life. 

Indeed, for many of us, it is an intentional act of resistance that takes us out of survival mode to thriving mode. It’s a way for us to recharge and show ourselves the love we deserve.

I like to vary my routine based on the seasons of the year. I was born in the summer, so I love this time of year. Summer is a season of warmth, growth, and vitality. The longer days and plenty of sunshine offer unique opportunities to nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits. But let’s not forget that the heat and humidity also bring unique challenges that affect our hair, skin, and overall health. Thus, it’s crucial to have a self-care plan in place.

This post explores the importance of a summer self-care jar and provides fun and refreshing ideas that cater specifically to Black women. Feel free to customize these ideas to fit your interests and preferences.

What Is a Summer Self-Care Jar?

A self-care jar, as the name suggests, is a jar filled with self-care activities. But wait. It’s more than just a mason jar or washed-out mayonnaise jar stuffed with random pieces of paper. Indeed, it’s a personal, tangible reminder of the importance of taking care of yourself and doing things that bring you joy.

The beauty of a DIY summer self-care jar lies in its simplicity and personalization. The pieces of paper inside the jar have a different activity or affirmation that is sure to nourish your body, mind, and spirit. No two jars are the same because you customize them based on your location, budget, lifestyle, and curiosity. Indeed, it should also contain new things to try and places to visit.

Now, you don’t want to miss this. Each activity you pull from the jar is a surprise, adding an element of fun and spontaneity to your routine.

And by the way, you can also create self-care jars as gifts.

Read: Nourish Your Soul: Prayers, Meditations, & Affirmations for Your Emotional Eating Recovery

Items Needed to Create a Summer Self-Care Jar

A Jar or Container

While we’re calling it a “self-care jar,” you can use any container. Most people use a large mason jar. I encourage you to use whatever is available–a plastic container with a lid, a cosmetic bag, a pretty vase, a decorative box with a cover, a recipe box, a Crown Royal bag, an old candle jar, or even a used mayonnaise or pickle jar. The key is to choose a container that has enough space to hold your self-care activities.

Decorative Materials.

Part of the fun of doing this DIY activity is that you get to decorate and personalize it. It can be as simple as a label saying, “My Summer of Self-Love.” Or, it can be decorated with stickers, ribbons, glitter, or whatever suits your fancy. Indeed, decorating your jar is a form of self-expression and can be a self-soothing activity. The beach is my happy place, so I am all about shells and sea turtles.

Paper and Pen

You need pens, markers, or gel pens to write down your self-care activities. You can use plain paper, colored paper, or sticky notes. I like to use sticky notes because they fold and stick nicely. They also make me feel like I am opening a fortune cookie. You can also tear paper into random pieces or cut it into uniform pieces. Choose whatever makes the process simple and enjoyable for you.

Affirmations, Quotes, Intentions

I often include affirmations and quotes in my self-care jar. Indeed, sometimes we need a note to remind us to be kind and gentle with ourselves. Type these out or download and paste them from a digital source.

Read: 55 Powerful Affirmations for Health and Healing

How to Use Your Summer Self-Care Jar

The goal is to use the jar as a self-care toolbox and fill it with activities that you love, need, or want to try. So, think about activities that make you feel good and help you relax. These could be things like “read a book by a new Black author,” “try a new hairstyle,” “go for a walk,” “get a spa treatment,” “watch a sunset,” or “try a new yoga class.” Keep reading for more ideas.

Write each activity on a piece of paper, fold it, and put it in the jar.

Decide if to pull an idea from the jar daily, a few times a week, or weekly. There is no right or wrong way to do it, so it’s OK to be spontaneous. Whatever you pull out is your self-care activity for the day. The surprise element adds a bit of fun and excitement to your self-care routine.

If you want some quick ideas, then check out this article. It lists self-care ideas that can be done in under 30 minutes, in 45-60 minutes, 2-3 hours, and 4-6 hours. However, the activities in the next sections focus mainly on summer.

Protective Hair Care Ideas for Summer Self-Care Jar

The heat, humidity, and sun exposure can lead to dryness, breakage, and damage, particularly for Black hair. And that’s why protective hair care is so crucial during the summer months. Here are some ideas for your self-care jar:

1. “Drink plenty of water today for hydration from the inside out. Your hair will thank you!”
2. “Try a new protective hairstyle today. How about braids, twists, or an updo to shield your hair from the summer elements?”
3. “Treat your hair to a nourishing leave-in conditioner. Remember, it’s a shield from heat and UV damage.”
4. “Take a break from heat styling today. Let your hair breathe and embrace its natural beauty.”
5. “It’s deep conditioning day! Give your hair a dose of intense hydration to keep it healthy and strong.”
6. “Wear a satin-lined hat or scarf today to protect your hair from the sun.”
7. “Try a new hydrating hair product. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera.”
8. “Experiment with a new natural hair product. Remember, your hair loves ingredients it recognizes!”
9. “Give your hair some love with a scalp massage. It boosts circulation and promotes hair health.”
10. “Today, appreciate your hair just the way it is. Remember, your natural hair, bald cut, braids, or weave is beautiful!”

Skin Care Regimen for Summer Self-Care Jar

Skincare is an essential part of self-care. Indeed, it becomes even more important during the summer months when our skin is exposed more often to sunlight and ultraviolet rays. While our melanin-rich skin has some natural protection against sunburn, it doesn’t make it immune to the harmful effects of the sun. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer. Therefore, sun protection is crucial for Black skin.

In addition to sun protection, maintaining a regular skincare routine can help keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing throughout the summer. This includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and using products that are suitable for your skin type. Here are some ideas for your self-care jar:

1. “Apply sunscreen today and every day! Remember, Black skin needs sun protection too.”
2. “Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water today for glowing skin.”
3. “Time for a gentle exfoliation routine. Remove dead skin cells for a brighter complexion.”
4. “Treat your skin to a hydrating mask. It’s a drink of water for your skin.”
5. “Don’t forget your lips! Apply a lip balm with SPF to keep them soft and protected.”
6. “Try a new antioxidant-rich serum today. It helps to fight against environmental damage.”
7. “Give your skin a break. Go makeup-free today and let your skin breathe.”
8. “Time for a DIY facial. Use natural ingredients from your kitchen.”
9. “Remember to moisturize your skin after your bath or shower. Lock in that moisture!”
10. “Wear a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses for extra sun protection today.”

Outdoor Activities for Summer Self-Care Jar

Physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. Indeed, it has profound benefits for our mental and physical health. Specifically, it improves mood, reduces stress and anxiety, improves the quality of sleep, and increases energy levels.

During the summer months, the warmer weather and longer days provide a great opportunity to take your workout outdoors. Outdoor physical activity not only allows you to enjoy the beautiful weather but it also makes your workout more enjoyable. Indeed, walking outdoors is good for our mental health. Here are some outdoor ideas for your self-care jar:

1. “Take a walk in the park today.”
2. “Go outside and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.”
3. “Try a new outdoor workout class.”
4. “Go for a bike ride.”
5. ” Explore a new part of the city or a local nature trail.”
6. “Have a dance party. Put on your favorite music and dance like nobody’s watching.”
7. “Try an aqua Zumba workout class at the gym.”
8. “Go to the beach or lounge by the pool.”
9. “Go for a hike with friends.”
10. “Try a new sport.”
11. “Take a mindful walk.”
12. “Pay attention to your breathing and the sensations in your body as you walk outdoors.”
13. “Do a sunrise workout.”
14. “Do a sunset workout.”
15. “Have a picnic in the park.”
16. “Go for a brisk walk after a meal.”

Mindfulness and Relaxation Summer Self-Care Jar Ideas

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for managing stress and promoting mental well-being. It involves focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, you can become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. This can help you respond to stress in a calmer, more effective way rather than reacting impulsively or becoming overwhelmed. Here are some ideas for your self-care jar:

1. “Take 5 minutes to meditate. Focus on your breath and let go of your thoughts.”
2. “Do a prayer walk around your neighborhood. Talk to God about your fears, worries, and disappointments. Finish the walk with praise and gratitude.
3. “Do a body scan. Pay attention to each part of your body, noticing any sensations or tension.”
4. “Practice mindful eating. Savor each bite and pay attention to your food’s taste, texture, and smell.”
5. “Spend time in nature. Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you.”
6. “Do a yoga sequence. If you can’t go in person, then watch an online video. Focus on your breath and the movement of your body.”
7. “Practice gratitude. Write down three things you’re grateful for today.”
8. “Listen to calming music. Pay attention to the different sounds and how they make you feel.”
9. “Do a mindful walk. Notice how your body feels with each step, and pay attention to your surroundings.”
10. “Try progressive muscle relaxation. Tense and then release each muscle group in your body.”
11. “Practice box breathing. Take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of your breath going in and out.”

Community Events for Your Summer Self-Care Jar

Community and sisterhood play a crucial role in our lives. They provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and shared experiences. As Black women, community and sisterhood can be particularly powerful in our health and healing. They can provide a safe space to share our unique experiences, celebrate our culture, and support each other in our journeys.

Being part of a community can also have significant mental health benefits. It can reduce feelings of loneliness, increase our sense of self-worth, and provide us with a support network to lean on in times of stress or difficulty. Additionally, participating in community activities or events can also be a great way to meet new people, learn new things, and contribute to our communities.

Here are some ideas:

1. “Attend a local cultural festival alone or with a friend or two. Enjoy the music, food, and community spirit.”
2. “Visit a local farmers market. Nourish your body with fresh, local produce and support local businesses.”
3. “Visit the zoo. Connect with nature and enjoy the wonder of wildlife.”
4. “Visit a local museum. Immerse yourself in art or history for a day.”
5. “Attend a concert or music festival. Lose yourself in the music and enjoy the energy of the crowd.”
6. “Take a trip to a botanical garden. Enjoy the beauty of the plants and the peacefulness of the surroundings.”
7. “Go to a comedy show. Laughter is a great stress reliever and mood booster.”
8. “Attend a yoga class in the park.”
9. “Go to a poetry reading or open mic night. Expressing yourself or listening to others can be therapeutic.”
10. “Take a cooking class.”
11. “Watch cooking videos and master cooking a meal from countries throughout the African diaspora.”
12. “Call a few friends over and learn to how to tie a Caribbean or an African headwrap.”

Now, It’s Your Turn

Well, I hope that you’re excited about creating your own self-care jar. Creating a self-care jar is a fun and effective way to prioritize your well-being. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish–it’s necessary. So, let’s embrace this summer with a commitment to take care of ourselves. You deserve it, queens!

I think you will also enjoy the blog posts on 9 Sunday habits for a more productive week, fierce quotes on being successful, and 3 top priorities for work-life balance.

What are some ideas for your summer self-care jar?

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