In case you needed the reminder: Self-care isn’t selfish. That’s the energy we’re bringing into National Self-Care Awareness Month this September.

Self-Care September is a time to take care of your physical + mental health. And as we welcome a new season (hello, fall), now is the perfect time to introduce new wellness practices into your routine.

These six self-care habits can make a big difference on your overall health:

Prioritize your well-being

It’s easy to fall into a pattern of taking care of everyone butyourself. Self-care begins with prioritizing your own well-being (read: the health of your mind, body, and spirit).

Here are a few ways to integrate self-care into your everyday routine.

Get active

Exercise can help strengthen your body, boost your mood, and clear your mind. And, there are plenty of local ways to get moving — whether you want to get active indoors or prefer to workout outdoors.

Take a mental health day

If you’ve been feeling stressed + unmotivated, this is your sign to take a mental health day. Sometimes a day of rest filled with your favorite local self-care activities is all you need to recharge your battery.

Express gratitude

Research shows that the mind and body are connected in more ways than one.

Try this: Approach your day with an attitude of gratitude. Write down three things you’re grateful for in the morning before starting your day.

Try a new hobby

Spark joy by finding a new hobby that interests you. Need some inspo? Check out this list for adult cooking classes, sports leagues, and more around Chattanooga.

Create a cozy space

Your home is like your personal self-care sanctuary — craft your space to be clean, cozy, and comfortable.

Pro tip: Check out our very own Six & Main store to set the vibe with candles, mugs, snuggly sweatshirts, and more.

Looking for more self-care tips? Here are 15 more ways to embrace Self-Care September.