Though International Self-Care Month technically begins on the 24th of June and ends on the 24th of July(International Self-Care Day), the entire month of July is regarded by many as International Self-Care Month. The 24th of July was chosen as International Self-Care Day because self-care can be practised “24 hours a day/7 days a week”.
This month is a time dedicated to focusing on our well-being and prioritizing self-care. Girlily has decided to put together 31 days of self-care activities for the entire month of July. We’re turning it into a mini-challenge. This challenge is to make the entire month a journey of self-discovery and self-nurturing. Taking care of ourselves mentally, emotionally, and physically is essential for leading a fulfilling and balanced life.
In this piece, we present 31 days of self-care practices, one for each day of the month, to inspire you on your personal self-care journey.
Day 1: Meditate
Start your self-care month by incorporating meditation into your daily routine. Find a quiet and comfortable space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Allow yourself to let go of any stress or distractions, and be present in the moment. Meditation can help reduce anxiety, improve concentration, and promote a sense of inner calm.
Day 2: Practice Gratitude
Take a few moments today (and for the rest of the month if you’re feeling it) to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Write them down in a gratitude journal or simply think about them. Expressing gratitude can shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life, increase happiness, and improve overall well-being.
Day 3: Take A Digital Detox
Unplug from technology for a day and give yourself a break from screens. Spend time engaging in activities that nourish your soul, such as reading a book, going for a walk in nature, or enjoying a hobby. Disconnecting from the digital world can help reduce stress and improve your mental clarity.
Day 4: Prioritize Sleep
Make quality sleep a priority. Establish a consistent bedtime routine that allows you to unwind and relax before bed. Create a calm sleep environment and aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night but you can start with just today. Quality sleep is essential for recharging your body and mind.
Day 5: Pamper Yourself
Indulge in a self-care pampering session. Take a luxurious bath, apply a face mask, or give yourself a massage. Treat yourself with love and care, allowing yourself to feel rejuvenated and refreshed.
Day 6: Practice Mindful Eating
Pay attention to your eating habits and practice mindful eating. Slow down, savour each bite, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Nourish yourself with nutritious foods that make you feel good and energized.
Day 7: Connect With Loved Ones
Spend quality time with your loved ones. Try to arrange a get-together, have a meaningful conversation, or simply share a laugh together. Connecting with others strengthens your relationships and enhances your sense of belonging.
Day 8: Engage In Creative Expression
Tap into your creative side. Paint, write, sing, dance, or engage in any other form of creative expression that brings you joy. Expressing yourself creatively can be a therapeutic and fulfilling experience.
Day 9: Practice Yoga Or Stretching
Move your body and engage in physical activity that promotes flexibility and relaxation. Whether it’s practising yoga, going for a walk, or stretching, find a way to incorporate movement into your day.
Day 10: Declutter Your Space
Spend time organizing and decluttering your living space. A clean and organized environment can have a positive impact on your mental well-being and productivity.
Day 11: Volunteer or Perform Random Acts of Kindness
Give back to your community by volunteering or performing a random act of kindness. Acts of kindness can not only benefit others but could also bring joy and fulfilment to yourself.
Day 12: Practice Deep Breathing
Take a few minutes today to practice deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing can help reduce stress, calm your nervous system, and increase your overall sense of well-being.
Day 13: Practice Mindful Movement
Engage in mindful movement practices such as tai chi, qigong, or dancing. These activities combine physical movement with mindfulness, promoting a sense of harmony between the body and mind.
Day 14: Read A Book
Escape into a good book and allow yourself to get lost in the pages. Reading not only provides entertainment but also stimulates your mind and expands your knowledge.
Day 15: Practice Self-Reflection
Set aside time today for self-reflection. Journaling, meditation, or simply sitting quietly can help you gain insights into yourself, your goals, and your desires. Self-reflection is a powerful tool for personal growth and self-awareness.
Day 16: Engage In A Hobby
Dedicate time today to your favourite hobby or explore new ones. Engaging in activities you love brings joy and fulfilment, allowing you to recharge and rejuvenate.
Day 17: Take A Social Media Break
Step away from social media for a day. Instead of scrolling through endless feeds, focus on real-life connections and meaningful interactions. Disconnecting from social media can help reduce comparison and increase your sense of presence.
Day 18: Practice Mindfulness
Try to be fully present today. Be in the moment and practice mindfulness. Engage in activities with intention and pay attention to the details of your surroundings. Mindfulness helps cultivate a sense of gratitude and enhances your overall well-being.
Day 19: Have A Solo Date
Treat yourself to a solo date. Take yourself out to a movie, enjoy a meal at your favourite restaurant, or go for a peaceful walk alone. Embracing solitude can provide valuable self-reflection time and allow you to nurture your relationship with yourself.
Day 20: Learn Something New
Challenge yourself to learn something new today. Take up a new hobby, enrol in an online course, or explore a topic that interests you. Continuous learning promotes personal growth and keeps your mind engaged.
Day 21: Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion today. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would extend to a loved one. Embrace your imperfections and practice self-acceptance.
Day 22: Engage In Laughter Therapy
Laughing is a powerful form of therapy. Watch a comedy show, spend time with friends who make you laugh, or engage in activities that bring you joy. Laughter reduces stress, boosts your mood, and improves overall well-being.
Day 23: Listen To Relaxing Music
Create a soothing atmosphere by listening to calming music. Allow yourself to unwind and let the melodies wash over you, promoting relaxation and tranquillity.
Day 24: Do Whatever You Want
It’s international self-care day and what screams self-care more than self-expression, free will and the ability to choose freely? This is a day for you. Own it!
Day 25: Practice Self-Care Affirmations
Repeat positive affirmations that promote self-love and self-care. Choose affirmations that resonate with you and say them aloud or write them down. Affirmations can help reframe negative self-talk and boost self-confidence.
Day 26: Have A Digital Spa Day
Indulge in a digital spa day. Treat yourself to a virtual spa experience by watching relaxation videos, trying out DIY beauty treatments, or enjoying guided meditation sessions online.
Day 27: Practice Emotional Release
Allow yourself to experience and release your emotions. Journaling, crying, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist can help you process and let go of pent-up emotions, promoting emotional well-being.
Day 28: Practice Mindful Breathing
Engage in mindful breathing exercises throughout the day. Take breaks to focus on your breath, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly. Mindful breathing can help reduce stress, increase focus, and bring a sense of calmness.
Day 29: Connect With Nature’s Healing Energy
Spend time in nature and connect with the healing energy of nature. Africans are said to have a deep ancestral connection to nature so try to channel that! Take off your shoes and walk barefoot on grass or sand, allowing yourself to ground and absorb the earth’s energy. Take a hike, visit a park, or simply sit in a garden. Nature has a way of grounding us and providing a sense of peace and serenity. She has a way of rejuvenating and restoring our vitality.
Day 30: Reflect on Your Self-Care Journey
Take time to reflect on your self-care journey throughout the month. Acknowledge the progress you’ve made, the habits you’ve formed, and the positive changes you’ve experienced. Celebrate your commitment to self-care and set intentions for continued self-nurturing.
Day 31: Create a Self-Care Plan for the Future
As International Self-Care Month comes to a close, create a self-care plan for the future. Identify the self-care practices that have been most beneficial to you and commit to incorporating them into your daily life moving forward. Remember, self-care is an ongoing journey, and it’s essential to prioritize yourself every day.
Editor’s Note: International Self-Care Month provides an opportunity for us to focus on our well-being and make self-care a priority. By dedicating 31 days to self-care practices, we can nurture our mental, emotional, and physical health. From meditation and gratitude to pampering and self-reflection, each day presents an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. As you embark on this self-care journey, remember to be kind to yourself, listen to your needs, and prioritize your well-being not just during International Self-Care Month, but every day of your life.