24 July 2025
International Self-Care Day (ISD) is on 24 July each year to highlight the importance of self-care in improving overall health and wellbeing. The date (24/7) symbolises that self-care should be practiced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It was launched in 2011, by the International Self-Care Foundation.
The day encourages individuals to prioritise their health and wellbeing through conscious, daily self-care practices to manage health, prevent illness and enhance overall quality of life. Consistent self-care practices have been clinically proven to help manage stress, improve mental health, and prevent chronic diseases. As health systems worldwide face a range of challenges, integrating self-care into our daily routine can lead to healthier populations.
The day is a powerful reminder that self-care is not a luxury – it’s a fundamental act of self-love and self-preservation. It is not selfish – it’s vital.
Self-care is not a trend; it’s a proactive and personal approach to looking after our overall wellbeing. Whether it’s getting enough rest, making healthy food choices or seeking support, every decision counts.
What is self-care?
World Health Organisation’s definition of self-care 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 health-care provider”.
Self-care involves people taking charge of their own physical and mental health using the knowledge and resources available to them. It empowers individuals to make informed choices in collaboration with healthcare professionals when needed. It includes:
- Making healthy lifestyle choices – being physically active and eating healthy
- Avoiding unhealthy lifestyle habits – avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Using prescription and non-prescription medications responsibly
- Recognising symptoms – assessing and addressing symptoms in partnership with healthcare professionals where necessary.
- Monitoring health – checking for signs of deterioration or improvement.
- Managing conditions – managing symptoms in partnership with healthcare professionals.
The key focus areas are:
- Mental health and emotional wellbeing – reduce stigma and promote open conversations. For more details read our guide here.
- Physical activity and healthy eating – encourage regular activities and balance nutrition as daily priorities. For more details read our guide here.
- Sleep and rest – understand the importance of restorative sleep. For more details read our guide here.
- Digital wellness – minimise screen fatigue and promote healthy technology use.
- Preventive health – ensure you have regular dental, GP and optical appointments.
How to get involved
Mental Wellness
- Spend time in nature
- Practice yoga or stretching techniques
- Try breathing techniques
- Practice mindfulness, meditation or self-reflection
- Journal your feelings, intentions or gratitudes
- Write down three positives from the day
- Use affirmations or positive self-talk
- Identify your stress triggers and develop healthy coping strategies
- Access mental health resources or talk to a counsellor
- Read, listen to music, or engage in a relaxing hobby
Physical Health
- Take the stairs, walk, or cycle when possible
- Get at least 30 mins of physical activity
- Eat colourful nutritious meals (aim for at least 4 colours on your plate)
- Drink at least 2 litres of water daily
- Prioritise 7–9 hours of quality sleep
- Use wearables or apps to track your wellness
Digital Self-Care
- Unfollow social media accounts that cause stress or self-comparison
- Use apps that’s support sleep, mindfulness, and screen-time management
- Take regular digital detoxes (start with 30 minutes a day and build up to digital-free days)
- Set tech-free hours especially before bed