International Self-Care Day
Jul 24, 2024
This special day, the 24th July is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of self-care and encouraging individuals to prioritise well-being. The date, 24/7, symbolises that self-care can be practiced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, reminding us that taking care of ourselves is a continuous and essential part of life.
Self-care is such an important part of my life, so much so that one of my dear friends refers to me as the queen of self-care.
Being the queen of self-care means embodying a lifestyle where nurturing yourself is paramount. It's about recognising your worth and prioritising your needs in a world that often demands far more than it gives. A queen of self-care understands that taking time for herself is never indulgent it is necessary. Knowing that her physical, emotional and mental health are the foundations upon which her strength and resilience are built.
To be a queen of self-care is to lead by example, showing others that self-love is a powerful act of defiance against burnout and negativity. It is about setting boundaries, saying no when needed, and yes to activities that rejuvenate and inspire. It involves creating a sanctuary in your daily life, where moments of peace, joy, and reflection are woven into the fabric of your routine.
In life self-care is often a backseat passenger. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, worry and a decline in both physical and mental health. Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. A wide range of activities and practices are encompassed in self-care that help maintain and improve our health, mood and overall quality of life.
Self-care includes 5 dimensions that you can read more about here.
International Self-Care Day is an opportunity to reflect on your self-care practices and make positive changes. Take some time to assess your current self-care routine and identify areas that need improvement. Create a self-care plan that includes activities from each dimension of self-care.
Find an exercise routine that you enjoy and can stick with. Whether it's a morning jog, a yoga session, or a dance class, physical self-care is essential for maintaining good health.
Dedicate a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness or meditation. This can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.
Reach out to friends and loved ones, even if it's just a quick phone call or a text message. Building and maintaining strong relationships is a vital aspect of self-care.
Learn to say no and set boundaries to protect your time and energy. This is especially important in a world where we are constantly bombarded with demands and expectations. Indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could be a spa day, reading a favourite book, or simply taking a long bath – bubbles included.
Stimulate your mind by learning a new skill or hobby. This can be a great way to boost mental self-care and keep your mind engaged. Spend some time reflecting on your day and writing down your thoughts and feelings. Journaling can be a powerful tool for emotional self-care.
Take a walk in the park, hike a trail, or simply sit in your backyard and enjoy the fresh air. Nature has a calming effect and can enhance spiritual self-care.Express gratitude by acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of your life. Practicing gratitude can improve your overall outlook and emotional well-being.
International Self-Care Day is also a great opportunity to spread awareness about the importance of self-care. You can share your self-care journey on social media, participate in local events or workshops, or even organise a self-care day at your workplace or community centre.
International Self-Care Day on the 24th July serves as a reminder that self-care is a lifelong practice that requires regular attention and effort.
By embracing self-care, we can improve our physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life. Take this day, and each day moving forward to prioritise yourself, practice self-care and encourage others to do the same.
Remember, self-care is never selfish; self-care is essential for living a balanced and happy life.
As the queen of self-care, you hold the power to transform your life through the simple yet profound act of taking care of yourself. Embrace your reign, proudly wear your crown and let self-care be a guiding light for you every day. 👑
