International Self-Care Day 2025

Thursday, July 24 is International Self-Care Day! The day gives everyone an opportunity to check in with their health and wellbeing, and treat themselves to something that will improve their lives.

Self-care can be about the indulgences we don’t usually allow ourselves, but the emphasis is on health and wellbeing, not just treats. Meditation, exercise and an early night are good examples of self-care. The trick is to figure out what activities benefit your wellbeing, and then setting time aside to do those activities.

The official 7 Pillars of Self-Care from the International Self-Care Foundation offer a useful guide. They are:

1. Knowledge and health literacy. People who know and understand their bodies enjoy better health and wellbeing than those who don’t; know your body, educate yourself on the major risk factors for diseases.
2. Mental Wellbeing, Self-Awareness & Agency. Self-esteem, life satisfaction, optimism, and mindset are all important parts of self-care.
3. Physical activity. Get outside and get active to take care of your body!
4. Healthy eating. Make yourself a nutritious meal or snack today to keep your body healthy!
5. Risk avoidance and mitigation. Can you curtail a bad habit today, such as drinking or smoking?
6. Good hygiene. Are you washing your hands, brushing your teeth, and flossing as much as is recommended?
7. Rational & responsible use of self-care products and services. Take a look at all the tools you have to live better - your prescription and non-prescription medicine use, gym membership, nutrition planning, etc. Are you getting the most out of these products and services, while still using them responsibly

Visit the International Self-Care Foundation for more information about International Self-Care Day. 

Article provided by the Student Support Program. Franklin University offers free 24/7 counseling support to all students as well as their spouses or domestic partners. Please click here to learn more.