Monday marks International Self-Care Day. But what exactly is “self-care?” Many people think of a bubble bath or glass of wine when the term is brought up, but self-care can be much more than the occasional treat. When you take care of your whole self: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, self-care is being practiced. This looks different for everyone. It can be as simple as going on a walk each morning, making time to socialize with friends, or learning about a subject that fascinates you. Other areas involve financial self-care and environmental self-care. These can be budgeting and putting money into savings or de-cluttering your home and cutting back time on social media. 

In today’s world, stress is around every corner. Trying to keep up with the to-do list is an evergreen task and adding self-care to the agenda may seem overwhelming. Although I challenge you to take a new perspective. The foundation of self-care is prioritizing your obligations beginning with you. This concept allows you to understand what matters most to you and gives you the ability to say yes to things that fulfill you. It creates the opportunity to achieve a healthier mind and body, and it helps you cope with daily stressors. In turn, you might find yourself having an easier time caring for your family, creating memories with friends, and increasing productivity at work. Just like the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so it is important to fill yours first.

So, how can you observe International Self-Care Day? You can start a list of practical ways to get into the habit of self-care, offer support to a loved one in need of self-care, or explore a few stress management techniques.

Whatever you decide to do, regularly prioritizing self-care can majorly impact your mental, physical, and emotional health.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. One may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.