july 24th is international self-care day! 

in the past few years, self-care has become synonymous with face masks, bubble baths and green tea but the term actually began as a medical concept. doctors considered "self-care" as a way for patients to treat themselves and exercise healthy habits- however, the practice was mostly encouraged to elderly patients and those living with mental health issues and later for health care professionals themselves.

the concept didn't really take off until it was adopted by political activities. in the 1970s, the black panther party promoted self-care as a revolutionary way for black and other oppressed citizens to begin to heal from the constant hurts of racism and marginalization, and empower themselves to continue fighting for equality. women’s rights activists were inspired and began adapting their own ideas of what self-care meant for women, namely those living in poverty without access to healthcare. feminist activists opened their own health clinics to ensure that women were given access to the care that they needed. 

modern self-care is an attempt to undo the stress that we experience from school, work, relationships, and lately, current events. it’s a movement that encourages individuals to put their health and wellness first, and let go of all guilt for doing so. 

the common thread is that self-care began as a tool, a strategy for people to take action to preserve or improve one's own health. so what actions can you take towards meaningful self-care? here are some suggestions.

take care of the basics first. the best self-care involves things often taken for granted. start by trying to get a little more sleep, drink a little more water, make healthier food choices, move your body, engage in self-reflection and get some fresh air—all simple ways to feel exponentially better.

nurture connections. research shows that positive human interaction is healing. make a point of scheduling in time to spend with friends and family- whether its a phone call, a meal together or even a quick coffee.  

detox your social media. social media is a hard habit to drop—but it can be used for good. unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about yourself. instead, follow accounts that uplift you, whether that is cooking, humour, creativity or just really cute animals (we highly recommend @doggosdoingthings)

practice “boring self-care.” it takes real perseverance to pay your bills, tidy your home, pack your lunch, fold your laundry and unload the dishwasher. these tasks aren’t photogenic, but they’re important steps on the way to a healthy and balanced life.

be present. mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment, can help you make the most of your self-care practices. this doesn't have to be a formal practice like meditation (but it totally can be), you just have to take time to focus on what you are doing, while you are doing it. 

take some time to celebrate international self-care day and start to develop your own self-care routine.