What is International Self-Care Day?

Every year, in July, we celebrate Self-Care Day. This day is observed on July 24th, and is dedicated to emphasizing the importance of self-care for maintaining personal health and well-being in your daily routine. Self-Care Day originated from an initiative by the International Self-Care Foundation (ISF). The ISF chose July 24th as the date to practice self-care  “24/7” as they wanted to emphasize the idea that self-care is a continuous and essential part of daily life. The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of self-care and to encourage individuals to take proactive steps towards their own health and well-being.

What self-care is and the different types

You can celebrate Self-Care Day by engaging in activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This can include taking time to relax and unwind, such as having a spa day. It can also include practicing mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and increase mental clarity. Individuals can engage in physical activities like yoga, walking, or any form of exercise that you enjoy. In addition, you can eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated, or spend quality time with loved ones and don’t forget to take time for yourself to do something you love like your favorite hobby. Take time to reflect on your self-care routines and ensure you’re making healthy decisions that will improve your overall well-being. 

Empower individuals around you to choose a self-care activity that enhances their own mental health. There is no one size fits all when it comes to self-care – it looks different for everyone. You can also celebrate Self-Care Day with others – try a self-care night for example. Gather some friends and loved ones and share activities that promote a healthy outlook on life.  

Finally, sometimes self-care means helping those around you. If volunteering brings you happiness, celebrate this Self-Care Day by signing up to be a Crisis Counselor here at Crisis Text Line. 

Why is self-care important?

The importance of Self-Care Day is to help individuals maintain and improve overall physical and mental health. Self-care reduces stress, prevents burnout, and enhances emotional resilience, allowing individuals to manage daily challenges more effectively. By prioritizing self-care, you can also improve your physical health and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. 

Physical health

Physical self-care involves activities and practices that maintain and improve your body’s health and well-being. For example, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated. It’s also about listening to your body and giving it what it needs, whether that’s a rest day, a long walk, or just some quiet time to unwind. Taking care of yourself physically not only helps you feel better but also boosts your energy and mood, making it easier to tackle whatever life throws your way.

Mental health

Taking care of your mental health means doing things to support how you feel and think. Prioritizing your mental health in self-care is important because it helps you manage stress, enhances emotional resilience, and improves overall quality of life. Good mental health supports better decision-making, fosters positive relationships, and contributes to physical well-being. Heal yourself mentally this Self-Care Day by allowing yourself to truly celebrate. Try starting your day with an affirmation, check out these 100 positive affirmations! 

Managing stress

Managing stress is important for self-care because it helps prevent burnout, reduces the risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and improves overall well-being. Effective stress management enhances your ability to focus, boosts your energy levels, and supports better physical health. Celebrate International Self-care Day with stress-free activities, like reading a book or just giving yourself an extra 10 minutes to pause and reflect on your day or your week.  

How to empower yourself and others on July 24th and beyond

Turn Self-care Day into Self-Care Month by promoting healthy, mindful activities and reflection. Empower individuals around you to celebrate, by encouraging them to focus on their own mental health and physical well-being. 

Download our resources

Check out our roadmap to self-care on selfcareday.com where you can find checklists to help you prioritize your mental, physical, social and financial well-being as you focus on self care. Share the ideas with those around you, and don’t be afraid to add your own. As we mentioned, there is no one size fits all when it comes to self-care, and it’s up to you to find what works best for you. 

Tune into our Instagram and Tiktok for content

Celebrate today with us by heading to our socials! Find ideas, affirmations and more to help you celebrate self-care day on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X. 

Share with a friend/Self-care check-in with a friend

Finally, spread the care – check in on your friends this self-care day, and every day. You never know when someone else may be struggling, and helping them to prioritize their own self-care may be the help they need. Let them know that they can always text SELFCARE to 741741 to talk to a live Crisis Counselor, for free and 100% confidential. By offering a listening ear, a kind word or a resource, you can make a positive impact on their well-being, strengthening your relationships and fostering a community of care and support. 

Did you know it’s also BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month? Check out some of our BIPOC Changemakers reducing the stigma around mental illness.