Self-care in my 50s doesn't look like it did a few years ago. I didn't really start making space for it until I was in my 40s, and even then, it felt like something I had to earn or squeeze in after everything else.

Now? I've let go of that pressure. These days, self-care is about the little things that help me feel calm, cared for, and more like me, even when life is full-on.

The journey to finding what works hasn't always been straightforward. There's so much advice out there about what self-care "should" look like, but I've discovered it's deeply personal.

What refreshes one person might drain another. What follows is my own version - simple, imperfect, and real.

Here's what it looks like for me now.

I used to jump straight into the day, housework, errands, and everyone else's needs. Now, I give myself a few quiet minutes with a cuppa before the day takes over.

I pop the kettle on, nip into the bathroom for a quick cleanse, then sit down and breathe. It's a small shift, but it helps me start the day with me in mind, and that makes all the difference.

This might be the biggest shift. Self-care isn't just about what I do, it's also about what I don't do. I've learned to protect my time, my energy, and my peace.

Saying no (without guilt). Letting go of things that don't matter. And not apologising for taking time for myself, even if it's just ten quiet minutes on the sofa with a cup of tea.

Gone are the days of waiting for a big free afternoon to "do self-care." Now, I sneak it in where I can. A calming roll-on by the sofa. A mist in my bag. A few minutes with my hands in the garden, even if I'm just pulling weeds or watering the pots.

I've got little comfort points dotted around the house and outside too, and they help me breathe. It's not a full spa day, but it's more than enough to lift my mood.

I started making space for self-care in my 40s, and it's taken time to find what actually works for me. These days, in my 50s, I've let go of the pressure to do it all perfectly.

It's not about grand routines, it's about giving myself a little extra care in ways that feel right, even on busy days. So, tell me how self-care has changed for you over the years?

Connect with me on Facebook. I'd love to hear how you're looking after yourself. What's one small self-care habit that's made a difference for you this week? Share in the comments or join our conversation in my Beauty & Balance Self-Care Hub group