Self-care is a self-explanatory term that includes all those types of behaviors that promote overall well-being of an individual physically, mentally and even spiritually. It refers to the holistic development and progress of an individual. It involves delving deeper into an understanding of one’s own self. Understanding oneself might seem simple when seen superficially but it is a very complex endeavor. Comprehending one’s thoughts, emotions, feelings and belief involves deep thought and introspection. Only when someone can understand these, can they truly care for themselves- which is the main idea of self care.
International self care day is celebrated across the world as a reminder for people to step out of their busy schedule and rejuvenate their body, mind and soul. Chosen to be celebrated on the 24th of July every year was a very thoughtful choice. This day represents the 24 hours of each day that we need to care for ourselves. This appreciates the need for caring for our own self and prioritizing our health. For without caring for one’s own self, a person can not care for others.
The theme of International Self-care Day 2023 is “resilience, adaptability and thriving in adversity.” This theme mainly centers around bouncing back from adversities. Be it physical adversities like injuries and illnesses or mental trauma or even situational stress- all kinds of adversities can not only be dealt with but one can thrive even in their presence.
Indubitably, self-care has become an ever more important and consequential part of the currently progressing society. Media has been covering the events of this day with an eagerness to spread more awareness about its celebration and importance.
Caring for oneself comprises multiple spheres. These spheres of self-care ensure that a person can be the best version of themselves and reach their true potential. This also helps them attain happiness and fulfillment and in turn lead a better life.
Mainly all these can be grouped into four main ones:
1. Physical: Physical self care involves caring for one’s own body through exercise, using the right products and figuring out the right routine. Further, it also involves the right nutrition through consumption of a balanced diet involving all the nutrients, minerals and vitamins that the body requires. Sleeping patterns are also a huge part of physical care.
Incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine will help you take care of your physical self:
-Exercising: Be it a morning walk, a sport or hitting the gym. Figuring out your interest and working out everyday is a great way to care for yourself.
-Consuming a balanced diet: The right nutrition serves like the fuel that helps you get through the entire day with optimum efficiency.
-Having a healthy sleep schedule: Sleep is an often ignored part of our lives. However, understanding its importance can help us live longer, healthier and happier lives.
In case you face troubles sleeping, it is important to consult a doctor and take the necessary medications.
-Body care: Finding out the right skincare and hair care products for yourself and sticking to the routine that works best for you always goes a long way.
Finding the right skincare products might seem complex and intimidating at first. Explore reliable products that actually work here.
2. Mental: Practicing mindfulness and being present in the moment are crucial skills which can be developed through techniques like meditation and breathing exercises. Effective stress management and enhancing emotional quotient are important for being able to deal with external circumstances of life that we don’t have control over.
These simple tips will help you take care of your mental health:
-Journaling: Writing about your feelings everyday helps in introspection and self-reflection.
-Developing a healthy habit: Developing healthy habits that do not involve exposure to devices and screens like reading a book everyday or trying out a new unexplored area like gardening can help you reconnect with yourself.
-Meditating: Meditating for as less as ten minutes per day can help you develop a very calm attitude and can also help you deal with stressful situations.
3. Social: Caring for oneself with respect to their social environment involves having a group of supportive people that can be trusted and act as an emotional asset.
Taking these steps ensures that you take care of yourself socially:
-Choosing company wisely: Surrounding oneself with the right people and distancing oneself from the wrong ones is one of the best ways of caring for oneself.
-Joining clubs: Joining clubs and organizations of your interest might help you connect with like minded people and develop great relationships over time. This will not only help you to make friends but also figure out your own interests.
4. Spiritual: When an individual understands the values that guide his/her life and reflects on his/her life on a regular basis, a sense of empowerment and self-assurance is reached.
Therefore, self-care is an indispensable part of a healthy life. Incorporating these small tips to take care of yourself is very simple and will prove to be incredibly helpful not just for your health but also your overall well-being and success in all spheres of life. This International Self-care day, be sure to try some of these and make time for your beautiful self.
(The article is reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Senior Health Content Editor)