July 24 is International Self-Care Day

July 24th is international self-care day!

Self-care empowers individuals, families, and communities to take charge of their health, encompassing health promotion, disease prevention, self-medication, and rehabilitation.¹ This not only alleviates the burden on healthcare systems but also fosters a sense of autonomy and responsibility among individuals.¹

Self-care is not a replacement for formal healthcare but a complementary approach that can significantly enhance health outcomes.

By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools for self-care, we can bridge the gap in healthcare access and move closer to a world where everyone enjoys good health.

Tips to practice self-care

Feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in your overall well-being. Here are some simple self-care tips to prioritize your mental and physical health:²

• Get moving: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or a fun dance class.³
• Fuel your body: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, and nourish yourself with balanced meals packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Prioritize sleep: Establish a regular sleep schedule to ensure you’re getting enough rest. Avoid screens before bedtime to promote better sleep quality.
• Relax and reflect: Incorporate calming activities like meditation, journaling, or deep breathing exercises into your routine. Consider using a relaxation app to guide you through these practices.⁴
• Connect with loved ones: Reach out to supportive friends and family for emotional support and connection.
• Practice gratitude: Take time to appreciate the positive aspects of your life. Keep a gratitude journal to record the things you’re thankful for.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential for maintaining your mental and physical health. By incorporating these simple tips into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to a happier, healthier you.

Resources for you

Do you want to practice self-care but don’t know how to start? Check out these related resources for some inspiration: a meditation app like headspace, expert sleep advice from The Sleep Charity, or healthy diet guidelines from the World Health Organization.^5-7

References

1. Self-care for health and well-being (no date) World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/health-topics/self-care#tab=tab_1 (Accessed: 10 July 2024). 
2. Authority, H. and S.S. (no date) International self-care day, International Self-care Day. Available at: https://www.nthssa.ca/en/newsroom/international-self-care-day (Accessed: 10 July 2024). 
3. Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress (2022) Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469 (Accessed: 10 July 2024). 
4. Komariah M, Ibrahim K, Pahria T, Rahayuwati L, Somantri I. Effect of Mindfulness Breathing Meditation on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress: A Randomized Controlled Trial among University Students. Healthcare (Basel). 2022;11(1):26. Published 2022 Dec 22. doi:10.3390/healthcare11010026
5. Be kind to your mind (no date) Headspace. Available at: https://www.headspace.com/articles/headspace-subscription-1?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=HS_Headspace_Brand-Exact_Search_CA-NorAm_Google_NA&utm_content=&utm_term=headspace&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADLlnJ2tP2NrdzFHMx9v2hEFlwy26&gclid=CjwKCAjw4ri0BhAvEiwA8oo6F6wKpS8zOz6tjGcIxE72meCdN5O8Vav8ktIfdqs5vCad1qryc7-MuhoCzP4QAvD_BwE&_stsgnoredir=1 (Accessed: 10 July 2024). 
6. Useful resources (2024) The Sleep Charity. Available at: https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/information-support/useful-resources/ (Accessed: 10 July 2024). 
7. Healthy diet (no date) World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet (Accessed: 10 July 2024).