November 17 marks the beginning of Self-Care Week. The week aims to raise awareness about importance of self-care in everyone's lives.
The theme for 2025 is Mind and Body and looks at the ways self-care takes on different forms for our different needs. Self-care is an important step in helping to maintain our wellbeing. Read through the rest of this page for some advice and tips to help you on your self care journey.
Exercise/move regularly
Movement is a great form of self-care. Even a short burst of ten minutes’ brisk walking can boost our mood and increase our mental alertness and energy. Movement helps us feel better about our bodies and improve self-esteem. Find time each day to get moving whether that's getting out to play football with your mates, taking, short walk or even doing some chair exercises.
For more check out our 'moments for movement' page
Get good sleep
Quality sleep supports balanced emotions, focus, and overall wellbeing. On the other hand, poor sleep can contribute to or worsen mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Ensuring we get a good rest is a great form of self-care. Try to create a restful environment and aim for the recommended 7-9 hours a night.
For more check out our 'how to sleep better' publication
Eat well
What we eat and drink affects how we feel, think and behave, so having a good diet is a great form of self-care. Eating well can improve your sense of wellbeing and mood. Aim for a balanced diet (including the right balance of fats, wholegrain, protein etc.) and stay hydrated. Sharing a meal at least once a week with friends or family also has a lot of benefits.
For more check out our 'diet and mental health' page
Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is a great self-care technique that helps us be fully present and engaged in the moment. It can help with managing thoughts, feelings and mental health. Practicing mindfulness can include using techniques like meditation, breathing, and yoga.
For more check out our 'mindfulness' page
Make time for friends
Taking time for yourself is an important element of self-care but so is social interaction. Friendship is a crucial in protecting our mental health. Our friends can keep us grounded, help us get things in perspective, and help us manage life's problems. Prioritise making time to see your friends when you can, even if it's just for brief catch-ups.
For more check out our 'friendship and mental health' page
Be kind
Research shows that kindness can help relieve stress, and kindness towards ourselves can boost our self-esteem and create feelings of optimism. Being kind to yourself means recognising your achievements no matter how big or small. If you are struggling, try not to beat yourself up and try to tune out the voice of comparison by appreciating and celebrating the little things you have done. Prioritise ‘me time' and do something you enjoy, like listening to your favourite podcast or song.