8 Summer Self-Care Rituals to Slow Down and Feel Good

Summer is right around the corner and with the longer days and the nicer weather it can often speed things up — but it can also the perfect time to intentionally slow down. These self-care rituals are so simple, scent-led ways to reconnect with yourself and your senses.

A self-care ritual is a purposeful activity that nurtures your physical, emotional, or mental well-being — these are done with intention, not urgency. It’s different from just doing something nice for yourself. A ritual adds meaning, presence, and often a sensory or emotional layer to the act. ✨ Think of it like this:

• Self-care task: Lighting a candle.
• Self-care ritual: Lighting a candle each evening, taking a few deep breaths, and journaling for 10 minutes to unwind your mind. These rituals don’t need to be long or elaborate. Just meaningful — and designed to bring you back to yourself and help make the calm moments last a little longer.

Here are my fave rituals that would be perfect to do this summer to help you slow down and feel better.

1. Start Mornings With a Stretch + Citrus Scent

Instead of rolling out of bed wishing you had 10 more minutes of sleep, why not ease into the day with some light and simple stretches by an open window and a burst of brightness from a citrus room spray? The scent of grapefruit or bergamot is perfect for energising the mind while keeping things soft and grounding.

2. Create a 10-Minute “Sun/Fresh Air Pause”

Step outside, phone-free, mid-morning — even if it's just your doorstep or balcony. Let the natural light and fresh air reset your mood and boost energy. Add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to a diffuser, or apply a calming roller before heading out. Breathe deep.

3. Upgrade Your Shower Into a Mini Spa

Turn your daily shower into a slow ritual. Try dry brushing, play a soft playlist, and finish with a linen spray misted over fresh towels or your robe.

4. Go Tech-Free for an Hour of the Evening

Unplug after work and give your mind space to breathe. Dim the lights, put on a slow playlist, and light a candle to mark the shift from doing to being.

5. Take an Evening Walk with Intention

Leave your phone in your pocket and focus on the scent of the evening air, the sound of wind in the trees, or your footsteps. Walking this way is a great way to reset your nervous system.

6. Cool Down with a Nightly Scent Ritual

Spritz your pillow or linen each night to signal sleep. Scents like chamomile or lavender help the mind and body unwind naturally.

7. Write a Weekly “Let It Go” List

Journaling isn’t just for planning — use it to release mental clutter. A short list of things you’re letting go of can create space for what matters.

8. Celebrate Doing Nothing At All

Summer is for stillness, too. You don’t have to earn rest. Light a candle, run a bath, and just be — no agenda, no productivity.

Self-care isn’t always about big, luxurious gestures — it's about the small, repeated moments that help you return to yourself. Whether it’s a citrus-scented morning stretch or lighting a calming candle before bed, these tiny rituals create lasting calm over time.

Which ritual will you try this week? Start with one and let it guide you gently into a slower, more mindful summer.