Since my birthday was last month, I thought it would be fun to share self-care birthday gifts you can give yourself. I mainly went for solo activities but most of these can be done with a friend or group as well. I hope you enjoy these 10 birthday self-care activities you can treat yourself to for your special day!

10 Ideas For Birthday Self-Care

1. Treat yourself to a massage

Massages are my ultimate form of self-care. Personally I treat myself to one every month. I have a Massage Envy membership, which is one of the more affordable options in my area. Groupon also tends to have good deals. Looking to splurge? Check out a fancy hotel in your area. Joe and I got a couples massage at the Atlantis Bahamas this year. It was incredibly luxurious. The lounges have saunas, steam rooms and plunge pools to use before and/or after your treatment. It was such a treat.

2. Enjoy a day of favorites

When I was in New York in April, I took myself out for an afternoon of favorites. I walked to my favorite bagel shop (Tompkin Square Bagels) and ordered a whole wheat bagel with bacon scallion cheese cream (the best!). I picked up a book from The Strand. I sat in Union Square and soaked in the sunshine and birds chirping. I strolled through the farmer's market. Then I sipped a lavender hot chocolate at Maman and read my book. These small things made my day. Find your version of this to do for yourself!

3. Buy yourself flowers

I love picking up flowers from Trader Joe's or the farmer's market but recently, I ordered flowers for delivery. It was such a special feeling. I ordered mine here. It's relatively affordable and widely available. You can even write yourself a note to go along with your arrangement 🙂

4. Have a movie watch party

Whether you want to revisit an old favorite or go for something you've been dying to watch, you can create a special viewing experience at home. I start by tidying up my couch and coffee table. Then pile on the pillows and blankets. I go for ultimate comfort. Prepare the snacks and drinks. I love stovetop popcorn, candy (something with chocolate and some type of gummies), and sparkling water. If I'm really trying soak in the experience, I turn off the lights and put my phone away. It's such a fun time!

5. Take yourself shopping

Wondering through a beloved store is such a delightful experience. I love to browse Sephora, Target, or Nordstrom - solo or with friends. I could easily spend hours wondering down the aisles. Take your time and let yourself soak in every moment of your shopping trip.

6. Get a blow out

This is such a treat and the perfect birthday present to yourself. I love going to DryBar for special occasions. Getting a blowout always makes me feel like a million bucks. Make sure to take lots of photos with your supermodel hair!

7. Take a gentle yoga class

I've found a few studios that offer self-care yoga, tune up yoga, or gentle yoga. Often times these classes are focused on moving slowly and listening to your body. If classes aren't accessible to you, you can definitely create an at home version. Turn on some relaxing music and do some gentle stretching. Start at your feet and work your way up. Check out YouTube or Pinterest for stretching inspiration. In some of the self-care yoga classes I've attended, we used tune up balls. I purchased a set for my home and find myself using them regularly. I love to roll out my shoulders (against the wall) or under my feet. 

8. Visit a cat cafe

Ok I recognize that this may be a niche interest. If you're anything like me, you love spending time with cats. When I didn't have a cat at home, I used to visit cat cafes. I've found them in several areas (New York City, Phuket (Thailand), San Francisco, and San Jose). These are typically coffee shops that house adoptable cats. For a nominal fee, you can spend an hour or so with new furry friends. I once even got to do yoga with cats at Meow Parlour in New York City.

9. Bake yourself a birthday cake

Baking is one of my favorite activities so I think this would make such an enjoyable birthday treat. Peruse Pinterest for a cake, pie, brownie or dessert of choice recipe. My favorite food blogs are Half Baked Harvest and Preppy Kitchen. In fact, John (from Preppy Kitchen) just shared this incredible peanut butter cake recipe! I cannot wait to try that one.

10. Take a solo trip

There's nothing like traveling alone. It can be intimidating at first but it's amazing to have full reins over your schedule. Whether it's a short day trip or an international excursion, I find solo travel to be so rewarding. This is the best quality time you can have with yourself!