Self-care simplified: Why it’s essential and how to make it happen 

Jul 8, 2025

Part of unmasking mental health is dispelling the myth that self-care is self-indulgent. Caring for ourselves is simply making time to do things that improve both our physical and mental health;ⁱ it’s proactive and deliberate and it’s critical to our mental and physical wellbeing. We should all practice self-care in some form every day from ensuring we get a good night’s rest to getting help when we need it. International Self-care Day (July 24) is the perfect time to explore why this practice is essential and how we can fit it into our daily lives.  

Self-care is intentional and enriches our lives. It has benefits beyond our selves because it helps us show up better for others too.

In fact, regular, quality self-care has been shown to improve mental health, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, increase optimism, and lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression.ⁱⁱ It can also help build resilience so you’re better able to handle life’s many stressors and challenges.ⁱⁱⁱ 

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to self-care. Our own needs, lifestyle, and preferences are unique, so how we take care of ourselves might be different from our friends’ or family’s practices. Try out different things to learn what works best for you. Even what might be considered a small act can have a big impact on your mental health. Maybe it’s talking to a friend, meditating, or going for a walk. Just make sure it’s something you enjoy so you can stay consistent with it and reap the full benefits. You can use our guide to brainstorm some activities and even use this permission slip as a mental commitment to honoring that practice.

How to get started

Here are some simple ways to practice self-care:   

• get a good night’s rest
• eat balanced meals
• take a bath
• snuggle with pets
• spend time in nature, e.g., go walking, hiking or paddling, do some gardening, or just sit outside
• do some physical activity, e.g., a workout, stretching or yoga, paddling, or team sports
• meditate / practice mindfulness
• get creative: make or build something
• spend time with people who lift you up
• get professional mental and physical therapy when you need it

Self-care is also about not doing certain things. Set and honour healthy boundaries like screen-time limits and sticking to regular work hours to ensure you have the time and energy to take care of yourself. 

Self-care at work

With the majority of Canadians working between 35–45 hours a week—roughly one-third of their lives^iv—self-care is also essential in the workplace. Organizations that encourage employees to practice self-care have reduced turnover, increased employee engagement, enhanced creativity, and a more resilient workforce capable of navigating challenges effectively. CMHA’s Not Myself Today program helps employers and employees foster a safe and supportive wok culture while building greater understanding and awareness of mental health and reducing stigma.

So, what are you waiting for? If you’re not taking care of yourself, who will?

ⁱCaring for your mental health, National Institute of Mental Health (nih.gov) 
ⁱⁱThe connection between self-care and mental health, Psychology Today 
ⁱⁱⁱFive types of self-care for every area of your life, verywellmind.com 
^ivDistribution of weekly working hours, 1976 to 2022, statcan.gc.ca