International Self-Care Day 2023

Monday, July 24 is International Self-Care Day! The day allows everyone to check in with their health and well-being and treat themselves to something that will improve their lives.

Self-care can be about the indulgences we don’t usually allow ourselves, but the emphasis is on health and well-being, not just treats. Meditation, exercise and an early night are good examples of self-care. The trick is to figure out what activities benefit your well-being and set aside time to do those activities.

The official 7 Pillars of Self-Care from the International Self-Care Foundation offer a useful guide. They are:

1. Knowledge and health literacy. People who know and understand their bodies enjoy better health and well-being than those who don’t; know your body and educate yourself on the major risk factors for diseases.
2. Mental Well-being, Self-Awareness & Agency. Self-esteem, life satisfaction, optimism and mindset are all important parts of self-care.
3. Physical activity. Get outside and get active to take care of your body!
4. Healthy eating. Make yourself a nutritious meal or snack today to keep your body healthy!
5. Risk avoidance and mitigation. Can you curtail a bad habit today, such as drinking or smoking?
6. Good hygiene. Are you washing your hands, brushing your teeth and flossing as much as is recommended?
7. Rational & responsible use of self-care products and services. Take a look at all the tools you have to live better—your prescription and non-prescription medicine use, gym membership, nutrition planning, etc. Are you getting the most out of these products and services while still using them responsibly?

For more information about International Self-Care Day, visit the International Self-Care Foundation.  

Article provided by My Student Support Program (My SSP). Franklin University offers free, 24/7 counseling support to all students and their spouses or domestic partners through the Student Support Program (My SSP). To access support anytime, anywhere, download and register using the free mobile app, or call 1.866.743.7732. If outside of the US or Canada, call 001.416.380.6578.