In a world engulfed with a lot of activities and never-ending situations, it is possible to be caught up in it all and forget about ourselves.
Issues such as stress, anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout are just but examples of occurrences that have led to continuous neglect of self.
This is a situation which has put self-care as an essential practice to be embraced, to uphold our mental wellness.
Self-care goes beyond what it is perceived to be in today’s fast-paced world.
Brian Osano, a mental health counsellor, said self-care is more than a luxury or occasional indulgence.
He described self-care as a necessity for all regardless of age, background or profession.
“Self-care involves an intentional approach towards engaging in activities and practises that promote overall wellbeing in an aim to restore balance in our lives,” Osano said.
In a bid to understand the impact of self-care on mental wellness, Osano said self-care is the foundation of mental resilience.
“Taking time to sit back and look at you, fill your cup before you go out to pour out into what you have to do, self-care empowers you to manage how to prevent burnouts,” he said.
“I encourage everyone to incorporate self-care into your daily routine, not only when you feel overloaded but as an intentional and proactive approach to mental wellness.”
Carol Joy, a psychologist, said self-care on a personal level can be anything you want it to be as long as it creates wellness mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.
“The act of self-care involves lots of intentionality and self-awareness, it is important to do regular check-ins to analyse where you are as a person and what you need then,” she said.
The two experts shared their sentiments on why self-care is important and gave guidelines on what can be done to uphold the same.
The mental health counsellor said practical ways such as enhancing one’s beauty and engaging in physical activities come a long way in pursuing self-care.
“Regular exercise not only benefits your physical health but also improves your moody releasing endorphins,” he said.
“Whether it is a brisk walk, yoga or hitting the gym, move a big part of your daily routine.”
He encouraged individuals to take a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness and meditation as this he said can help reduce overloads and promote mental clarity.
“Setting boundaries is one more way of promoting self-care, learning to say no, and setting personal boundaries is important to protect your mental space,” Osano said.
“It allows you to prioritise your own need over others, without guilt or overwhelm. You always come first because why not?”
Carol on the other hand highlighted practises like journaling, eating healthier meals, practising gratitude, extending compassion to oneself as one would do to others, and creating sleep and exercise routines as acts to promote self-care.
“The consistent practice of these activities can greatly impact emotional resilience and provide the energy needed to participate in our daily life activities,” she said.
“ Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and joy, whether hobbies, creative works or spending time with friends who support and understand you also count as self-care.”
From a health perspective, WHO describes self-care as people’s ability to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health worker.
WHO recommends self-care interventions as critical components on the path to reaching universal health coverage (UHC), promoting health, keeping the world safe and serving the vulnerable.”