40 Days of Extra Care: Small Daily Self-Care Steps for Stress and Skin
Small steps toward wellness, one day at a time.
By Shannon, Licensed Master Esthetician · Spruce Holistic Skincare + Acne Clinic, Missoula, MT
Self-care is having a moment, but what's actually best? For the next 40 days, I'm taking small daily steps toward wellness, and I'd love for you to join me.
Why Self-Care Matters Right Now
Burnout and chronic stress have become part of everyday conversation, and the effects of our fast-paced, high-pressure, multitasking lives aren't going unnoticed. Many of us are feeling it as deep fatigue, digestive issues, and trouble concentrating.
Your Skin Feels Stress Too
Stress shows up on the skin as well. High cortisol may contribute to more inflammation and to the earlier breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can lead to skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Stress is also a common factor in breakouts and sensitivity, which is why we look at the whole person in our Holistic Skin Rituals.
So What's the Best Kind of Self-Care?
We're told to take more baths, take time for ourselves, journal, meditate, and do yoga. With so many options, how do we choose? The honest answer is that it's different for everyone. For me, it comes down to taking better care of my health and my body. I feel my best when I prioritize my mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
My 40 Days of Extra Care
For the next 40 days, during the Venus retrograde cycle, I'm making myself more of a priority and giving myself a little extra care each day. Every day is a new opportunity to take a small step toward wellness.
Small Self-Care Steps You Can Try
Take what resonates and leave what doesn't. A few ideas to start with:
- Drink a full glass of water before your first coffee
- Step outside for 10 minutes of daylight
- Keep your skincare routine simple and consistent: gentle cleanse, moisturize, sunscreen
- Eat a protein-rich breakfast
- Move your body gently, with a walk or some stretching
- Write three lines in a journal
- Start a screen-free wind-down 30 minutes before bed
- Go to bed a little earlier than usual
What we do consistently for ourselves matters more than what we do perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does stress affect your skin? Stress can increase inflammation and contribute to breakouts, sensitivity, and the earlier appearance of fine lines. Supporting your skin barrier and your stress levels together tends to work better than either alone.
Do I have to do all 40 days? No. Small, consistent steps matter more than a perfect streak. If you miss a day, simply pick it back up.
What if I'm too busy for self-care? Start with one tiny habit that takes under five minutes. Small steps are easier to repeat, and repetition is what builds a routine.
Can skincare count as self-care? Absolutely. A simple routine you enjoy can be a daily moment of calm. Our barrier-first approach keeps it gentle and sustainable.
Join Me
Want to follow along? Get the free 40-Day Care Checklist and join me, or book a skincare appointment / reach out about coaching if you'd like support building a routine that fits your life.