The Importance of Self-Care
- Fox Cub Design Studio
- Nov 16
- 4 min read
It’s easy to forget how important it is to look after yourself, especially when life feels overwhelming. Let’s explore why self-care matters and how you can build a simple, sustainable self-care practice that supports your mental and physical well-being.
In This Blog, We’ll Explore:
Understanding Mental Health
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines mental health as:
“A state of well-being in which an individual realises their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to contribute to their community.”
Key facts about mental health:
Affordable, effective strategies exist to promote and protect it.
The need for action is urgent and indisputable.
Mental health is both intrinsically valuable and essential for broader well-being.
It is shaped by individual, social, and structural factors.
Mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness. It exists on a spectrum that varies from person to person, with a wide range of experiences and outcomes. The NHS reports that 1 in 4 adults will experience at least one diagnosable mental health condition each year. But mental health matters for everyone, not just those with a diagnosis.
What Is Self-Care?
The British Medical Association (BMA) defines self-care as:
“The actions people take for themselves… to stay fit and maintain good physical and mental health.”
Self-care includes the habits, routines, and decisions that help us manage our health, physically, mentally, and emotionally. It ranges from brushing your teeth and getting enough sleep to managing long-term conditions or recovering from illness.
Importantly, self-care doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Access to professional care, community support, and good information is essential, especially when dealing with complex or long-term health issues.
Different Types of Self-Care
Self-care comes in many forms and is not one-size-fits-all. It may include:
Health promotion - Eating well, staying active, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake.
Minor ailment care - Managing issues like headaches, colds, or small injuries at home.
Managing chronic conditions - Tools like care plans, support groups, self-monitoring devices, and telephone care can help people stay in control of their health.
Emotional and mental well-being - Building coping strategies, accessing therapy, and making time for joy and rest.
How to Start a Self-Care Routine in 10 Simple Steps
Here are 10 simple, effective ways to embed self-care into your daily life:
Establish Routines and Rituals
Having small rituals, like setting out your breakfast bowl the night before or planning tomorrow’s outfit, can reduce morning stress. These moments create a calm foundation to begin your day with intention.
Make Time for Hobbies
Even half an hour a week doing something you love—knitting, crafting, dancing, reading—can refresh your mind and prevent burnout.
Schedule 'Me Time'
Block out a pocket of time every day that’s just for you. A 20-minute bath, 10 minutes of journaling/ bullet journaling or curling up with a book can help you decompress.
Prioritise Sleep
"You can't pour from an empty cup." Sleep is essential for physical and emotional recovery. Make it a non-negotiable part of your self-care routine.
Eat Nourishing Foods
The NHS recommends eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day for better physical and mental health. What you put into your body fuels how you feel.
Learn to Say No
You don’t have to say yes to everything. Set boundaries and protect your energy by only committing to what’s manageable and meaningful.
Stay Active
According to Mind, many people find that physical activity supports mental well-being. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or dancing, move in ways that feel good to you.
Tackle Tasks by Priority
To-do lists can feel endless. Try breaking them into “urgent” vs “this week” to avoid overwhelm and make progress one step at a time.
Connect with Others
Social connection is a key part of well-being. Schedule time to catch up with a friend, join a group with shared interests, or simply check in with someone you trust. Meaningful interactions can boost your mood and provide emotional support.
Digital Downtime
Take intentional breaks from screens, especially social media. Even a short break can help reduce stress, improve focus, and give your mind space to rest. Try a phone-free hour before bed or a screen-free Sunday morning.
Final Thoughts: Why Self-Care Matters
Self-care is not a luxury because it is, in fact, a vital part of staying well. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule, a health condition, or just the everyday stresses of life, developing small but meaningful habits can help you feel more grounded, resilient, and empowered. Why not get a helping hand and take the NHS Mind Plan Quiz to get a free personalised mental health action plan?
Thank you for reading - we hope your day is as lovely as you are!
🍁 Discover the Pumpkin Patch Wildlife Journal - a full-colour, nature-inspired planner for a year of creativity and calm.
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