Of course, we must make every day a self-care day. As we take better care of ourselves, we have more capacity to take care of others. We have more motivation, compassion and resilience.

Finding ways to take better care of ourselves does not need to be complicated. It can be as simple as taking time to rest without feeling guilty about things left undone (I am personally working on this one!). You can choose to take a walk in nature instead of turning on the latest movie offering. Enlist a friend to go for a stroll early in the evening. Your body and mind will thank you for it!

Reading can be a self care practice, as can journalling. Reading can help take our minds off worries and concerns. Journalling helps clear the mind by writing down all those ticker-tape thoughts running through our brains.

Getting creative is self care. This could mean anything from taking a pottery class to colouring to gardening. Whatever form your creative passion takes, do it!

What else does self care look like? Do you have issues from the past that you are struggling with? Finding a good counselor can help you let go of those lingering beliefs in a safe environment. Going to the gym regularly can help you blow of steam from the work day while helping your body operate more efficiently.

Food is another way we can take better care of ourselves as stress wreaks havoc with our immune system as our bodies are depleted of nutrients more quickly. The better you eat, the better your body can handle stress. The next time you think you need a caffeinated beverage, for example, try a big glass of water instead. You may even find a decrease in headaches as you stay hydrated. Make sure to eat a variety of foods to give you as much nutrition as possible. Leafy greens, berries, nut butter and high fat yogurt blend together to form that smoothie you've been meaning to take to work.

The most important thing about self care is that you want to do things in a gentle way without self criticism. Always talk to your self as you would a dear friend.

Let's all make a pact to be more loving towards ourselves!

For more info: International Self-care Day - July 24, 2024 National Today

Check out our page on self-care: Self-care - Holistipedia

For a list of resources, please see: Resources - Holistipedia.

Have a question? Please reach out to us at info@holistipedia.ca.