Simple Self-Care Night Ideas That Tap Into JOMO, the Joy of Missing Out

Updated by Cratejoy Editor

Move over, FOMO. This is the era of self-actualization and self care nights. As more women and LGBTQ+ heroes speak their truths in the media, there is a new wave of badass, self-assured people who know what they want and who they are - and who aren't afraid to spend time making sure mental health is a priority.

Join the revolution by ditching your FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and leveling up to JOMO - the Joy of Missing Out. Defined by Psychology Today as the “emotionally intelligent antidote to FOMO,” JOMO describes the pleasure of taking a break from social activities, especially social media, to enjoy personal time. So ditch the smartphone (Instagram filters and hashtag-YOLO are no substitute for the real thing), shed that anxiety, and practice self-care ideas for your real best friend: you.

How to have a low-maintenance self-care night in:

Disconnect entirely and do something that’s just for you – no photos, no scrolling, no notifications, no brave #selfcare declarations. Focus on your well-being and what makes you feel good. If the thought of this makes you want to send up an SOS, don’t worry! There are therapists and mindfulness experts way ahead of you.

Get your introvert self-care ritual started with a curated self-care subscription box that delivers tools for self-reflection and self-care routines, along with goodies like snuggly socks, aromatherapy, spa products, essential oils and more. (We love therapist-curated Therabox and the practical self-care workbooks and strategies delivered by MindWander, which help you kick-start your self-care in your own home.)

Here are a few specific activities that are commonly related to self-care.

1. Make the space to breathe.

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Create physical space for yourself wherever you are, then throw out the to-do list. Decluttering is one of the most chore-related self-care activities, but it's hard for the brain to process emotional and mental shifts without feeling physically different. The act of tidying up your space in your daily routine or your evening routine can signal that the day is over and to start spending time with yourself.

Use this time for affirmations or simply to just take deep breaths and check in with your physical health. Turn on a relaxing diffuser, start a cup of tea, and reflect on the day and how you physically feel in that moment. Revisit your favorite book or crack open a good book from one of our favorite book discussion clubs like Once Upon a Book Club that has the option to connect with a community of readers.

2. Pamper yourself with a home spa day.

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Get out of your head by pampering that bod. There’s nothing as immediately relaxing or rejuvenating as the me-time that comes with a self-care night. Even something as simple and inexpensive as a hot bath, a home manicure or pedicure, or DIY hair masque can leave you glowing from the inside out. Play an inspiring playlist or podcast play in the background for exactly the type of vibes you seek.

Stock up your home spa for a simple skincare routine with super-affordable luxe Korean face masks (we love the style and selection from Beauteque), or treat yourself to a full home-spa experience with a bath and beauty subscription like Bath Blessing Box, which delivers a whole new suite of hot shower and bubble bath goodies to your home each month for primo glow-up self-care.

3. Whip up some self-love with DIY sweets

We all eat healthy during the week, but the evenings and weekends are your time – celebrate with something sweet from your own kitchen. Treat yourself by taking the time to decorate adorable cupcakes, design Pinterest-worthy cakes, or whip up Instagram-worthy cookies – but all. For. You. (And whoever you want to share them with when introvert time’s over – we’re not going to judge.)

If you want to channel your inner Martha Stewart but don’t know where to start, check out Bake Eat Love, which delivers a new hand-crafted recipe with pre-measured ingredients, baking tools and adorable baking kitsch in every monthly box for no-fail DIY success.

Ready to ditch FOMO and embrace JOMO? You’re worth it!