Self-care: What is it?

According to the World Health Organization, self-care is “is the ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider”. 

The 7 Pillars of Self-Care

The website selfcare.ca promotes 7 pillars of self-care:

1. Health Literacy
2. Self Awareness
3. Physical Activity
4. Healthy Eating
5. Risk Avoidance
6. Good Hygiene
7. Optimal Use of Products and Services

What does self-care look like for you?

Self-care looks like different things to different people. For some, it might be going for a walk or doing a quick workout between classes. However, self-care is not always glamorous. Sometimes, self-care is doing the things that we’ve been putting off for too long. This could be finally getting around to the laundry that’s been piling up or making the doctor’s appointment that you’ve been meaning to make for months. 

How do you take care of yourself?

What are some of the ways that you practice self-care? Feel free to share in the comments of @otstudentlife's Instagram post. Remember that you are your #1 priority! Take care of yourself! 

Read more about the importance of self-care as a university student.