Imagine this: adults who take time for self-care report a 40% higher satisfaction rate in their daily lives. Yet, for many of us, self-care feels like one more item on a never-ending to-do list. Here’s the truth—self-care doesn’t have to be a solo act or a weekend luxury. In fact, practicing it in groups can be even more rewarding.
Whether you’re looking to recharge with friends, build stronger workplace bonds, or just enjoy a fulfilling break, group self-care can be a game-changer. From interactive art sessions to outdoor challenges, this list dives into 10 refreshing, doable self-care activities that anyone can enjoy with a group.
1. Guided Meditation Circle
Cost: Free to low-cost
Location: Indoors or outdoors
Start with a grounding mindfulness session that sets a relaxing tone for the day. Invite everyone to bring a cushion or mat, gather in a circle, and listen to a guided meditation. Free apps like Insight Timer or Headspace offer fantastic options, or you can go the extra mile and hire a meditation instructor for a personalized experience. Meditation in a group setting can amplify focus and help each person feel more present. Plus, discussing everyone’s experience afterward brings deeper insights and bonds.
You can read more on guided meditation circles at: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/guided-meditation-scripts-for-groups/
2. Group Yoga or Stretch Session
Cost: Low-cost to medium-cost (if you hire an instructor)
Location: Outdoors or indoors with enough space
A gentle yoga or stretch session can help everyone release tension, improve flexibility, and get centered. Try a group flow that’s simple enough for all levels, and consider including breathing exercises to kick things off. If hiring a professional instructor is in the budget, look for one specializing in group yoga for a more personalized touch. Alternatively, free resources like YouTube videos can guide the session just as effectively. This is a relaxed yet revitalizing way to ease everyone into the day’s activities.
See a link to group yoga classes below:
https://www.yogabeyondthestudio.com/online-group-yoga-classes
3. Nature Walk with Reflection
Cost: Free
Location: Outdoors in a nearby park or natural area
Take the group outside for a walk in nature, where you can enjoy fresh air and leave daily stress behind. Go to a local park, lake, or trail—somewhere that lets you fully experience the surroundings. To add a mindful touch, incorporate a reflection period halfway through the walk where everyone can share a thought or feeling about the moment. It’s a simple yet impactful way to connect both with nature and with each other.
4. “Grounding in Nature” Picnic
Cost: Medium-cost
Location: Outdoor park or scenic area
Create a cozy setup with blankets, some simple foods, and natural surroundings. Share a meal while practicing grounding exercises like focusing on each taste and texture or sharing something each person is grateful for. The relaxed atmosphere allows for open conversation, and eating mindfully in nature can make a meal feel restorative rather than routine.
5. Dance it Out
Cost: Low-cost to medium-cost
Location: Indoors or outdoors
If your group could use an energy boost, a dance session is an upbeat way to get everyone moving. Choose a playlist everyone loves, find a space with enough room, and just let loose! This is a fantastic way to relieve stress, improve mood, and enjoy each other’s company. If you want a structured approach, consider taking a short online class in salsa or hip-hop, or even hiring a dance instructor for an hour.
6. DIY Art Therapy Workshop
Cost: Low-cost to medium-cost
Location: Indoors, at home or in a community space
Tap into creativity with an art therapy-inspired session. Set up a workspace with a mix of art supplies like paints, colored pencils, or clay. Each person can work on a small project, whether it’s a simple drawing or a mini-sculpture. You might start by setting an intention, like focusing on a recent accomplishment or positive feeling. The process of creating something together allows for self-expression without judgment and can open up meaningful conversations.
7. Team Board Game Hour
Cost: Low-cost
Location: Indoors
Gather the group for a lighthearted yet strategic board game session. Cooperative games like Pandemic or creative ones like Codenames encourage teamwork and communication. It’s a wonderful way to relax, challenge each other, and laugh—all essential elements of self-care. Plus, having a few snacks on hand adds to the enjoyment and gives everyone a chance to unwind over good company and fun challenges.
8. “Vision and Goals” Collage Session
Cost: Low-cost
Location: Indoors, preferably around a table
Each person brings old magazines, some scissors, glue, and a small poster board. Start by asking everyone to think of something they want to achieve or focus on in the coming months. Then, each person creates a mini “vision board,” layering pictures and words that inspire them. At the end, take turns sharing the final product, if they’re comfortable, as a way to encourage and support each other’s goals.
9. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
Cost: Low-cost to medium-cost
Location: Outdoors, like a park or botanical garden
Scavenger hunts aren’t just for kids; they can be an energizing way for adults to connect and explore! Create a list of things to find in nature—unique leaves, specific flowers, or even creatively shaped rocks. Split into pairs and set a timer for added fun. This activity brings a bit of excitement and encourages team bonding without any pressure.
10. Book Club Brunch
Cost: Medium-cost
Location: Indoors or outdoors
Bring everyone together for a brunch where you can discuss a pre-chosen book, article, or podcast episode. It doesn’t have to be long or overly thought-provoking—a fun memoir or uplifting read is perfect. Sharing perspectives on a common piece of content can lead to lively conversations and new ideas. Add coffee, pastries, or a simple breakfast spread, and you’ve got a self-care activity that nourishes both body and mind.
Final Thought
Self-care doesn’t have to mean solitude. Whether it’s a moment of calm, a laugh over brunch, or a creative collaboration, shared self-care brings a unique dimension to wellness. Try these activities with a small group, and watch as the bonds you build enhance the quality of each experience. Here’s to collective joy, restoration, and a little adventure—one group activity at a time!
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