International Self-Care Day is recognized every year on July 24. The date was chosen because self-care is important 24/7 — for your body, mind, and overall well-being. The day serves as a reminder that looking after yourself is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Self-care means something different for everyone, but at its core, it’s about taking the time to maintain and improve your mental, emotional, and physical health. From small daily habits to bigger lifestyle shifts, prioritizing self-care can lead to better health outcomes, improved relationships, and greater resilience in times of stress.
Why It Matters
- Practicing self-care regularly can help prevent burnout, reduce stress, and support mental health.
- People who prioritize their well-being are more productive, more focused, and often report higher satisfaction with their work and life.
- Self-care builds a strong foundation for preventive health, which means fewer sick days and better long-term outcomes.
Ways to Take Care of Yourself
Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are some meaningful ways to build it into your everyday life:
For Your Mind
- Take breaks from screens and social media when feeling overwhelmed.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation — even 5 minutes a day can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.
- Journal your thoughts or write down things you’re grateful for to shift your mindset.
- Set healthy boundaries with work and relationships to protect your energy.
For Your Body
- Move your body daily — walking, stretching, dancing, or any form of physical activity that feels good to you.
- Stay hydrated and eat nourishing meals that fuel your body.
- Prioritize sleep — aim for 7–9 hours per night and build a calming bedtime routine.
- Book regular health checkups and don’t delay medical care.
For Your Emotional Well-being
- Talk to someone — a friend, therapist, or support group. You don’t have to do it all alone.
- Do things you enjoy, whether that’s reading, gardening, painting, or watching your favourite show.
- Say no to things that drain you, and yes to rest and joy.
- Celebrate small wins — progress is progress, no matter the pace.
For Your Environment
- Declutter a space — even small tidying efforts can help clear mental fog.
- Spend time in nature, even if it’s just a walk around the block or sitting in the sun for a few minutes.
- Create a calm corner at home with soft lighting, a comfy chair, or music you love.
Final Thought
Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s an essential part of a healthy, balanced life. Whether it’s five minutes or fifty, investing in yourself helps you show up better for everything and everyone around you. If you are unsure of how to do the above things, it is important to seek out professional advice. People who can help you in many of the above areas are doctors, counsellors, personal trainers, health consultants, nutritionists, massage therapists, and life coaches. Ensure they are licensed and registered. When we take care of ourselves, we can help reduce stress and improve our overall wellbeing. We can help others when we take care of us.
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MaryAnna Robbins CSEP-CPT, OFC RHEP – Group Exercise, Resistance Trainer, Yoga Fitness, Pilates Mat Fitness
