Every year on 24 July, the International Day of Self-Care (also known as Self-Care Day or ISD) invites people around the world to prioritise self-love and personal wellness. This universal day serves as a reminder to reevaluate our health and lifestyle while raising awareness of the importance of holistic well-being.
What Is Self-Care?
Self-care often conjures images of face masks and bubble baths. However, true self-care encompasses a variety of actions and mindsets aimed at nurturing physical, social, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It's about more than just pampering—it's about addressing bad habits, mental health, and setting boundaries alongside the more indulgent activities.
While a cup of green tea or a walk in the park can be part of a self-care routine, it's crucial to also tackle the less glamorous aspects that contribute to a healthy lifestyle and stable mental state.
Accessibility of Self-Care
Making self-care accessible can be challenging. Many people face obstacles such as time constraints, financial issues, health problems, and caregiving responsibilities that make it difficult to prioritise self-care. Additionally, social or cultural barriers and physical, mental, or emotional challenges can further hinder the practice of proper self-care.
Despite these challenges, everyone deserves to incorporate self-care into their daily routines. Even small steps can make a significant difference in overall well-being.
Overcoming Self-Care Guilt
It's normal to feel guilty for prioritising yourself in a culture that often values serving others above individual well-being. However, personal joy and pleasure should be celebrated and promoted. Taking time for your health is essential, and everyone requires different degrees of time to recharge.
Importance of Self-Care in a Busy Schedule
Incorporating small, mindful actions into your daily routine can have a lasting impact. Building and practising mindfulness tools can help you manage stress more effectively.
Here are some quick and easy reflection questions to enhance your personal wellness:
How does my body feel right now?
Have I eaten today?
When did I last drink water?
Am I setting appropriate limits in my relationships?
What is one person/place/thing I feel grateful for today?
Combatting Feelings of Unworthiness
When struggling with mental health, it's common to reject beneficial activities, including basic hygiene. Remember that even the smallest action towards self-care can initiate progress in recovery.
Traditional Ways to Celebrate Self-Care Day
Here are some traditional and enjoyable ways to celebrate International Self-Care Day:
Get Lost in Nature: Spend time outdoors to reconnect with yourself and the natural world. Whether it’s a hike, a walk in the park, or simply sitting in your garden, nature provides a unique form of healing.
Pamper Yourself: Indulge in an at-home spa day. Light a candle, soak your feet, or update your skincare routine.
Splurge on Luxury Treats: Treat yourself to a special purchase or an exquisite meal. Mindfully budget for a little luxury to show appreciation for yourself.
Reach Out to a Loved One: Enhance your social health by spending quality time with loved ones. Building and strengthening meaningful relationships is a powerful form of self-care.
Promoting Total Health
International Self-Care Day is also a reminder to review your overall health plan. This could involve scheduling medical appointments, planning a workout routine, or reassessing your mental health treatment plan. Regularly evaluating and adjusting your health strategies ensures they remain effective and tailored to your current needs.
Final Words of Encouragement
Self-care might still seem frivolous to some, but it is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Embrace the opportunity to take a break from responsibilities on International Self-Care Day. By cultivating positive habits within ourselves, we contribute to a more positive world. This year on 24 July, remember to practice self-care—it could change your world!
Remember, if nothing changes, nothing changes.
