On July 24th, we recognize International Self-Care Day, a thoughtful reminder that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. The date, 7/24, symbolizes the importance of caring for ourselves 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

In our fast-paced world, it's all too easy to put our own needs on the back burner while we care for others, meet deadlines, and juggle countless responsibilities. This day invites us to pause and remember that self-care doesn't require grand gestures or expensive investments. Often, the most transformative acts of self-care are also the simplest. 

The science behind self-care 

Research consistently shows that regular self-care practices reduce stress hormones like cortisol, boost immune function, and improve both mental and physical health outcomes. When we prioritize our well-being, we're not just helping ourselves, we're better equipped to show up for the people and responsibilities that matter to us.

Small acts, big impact 

Self-care doesn't demand elaborate rituals or expensive treatments. Instead, it grows through everyday decisions: getting adequate rest, taking peaceful walks, creating boundaries with technology, or pausing to listen to what our minds and bodies truly need. 

Physical self-care: Begin with honoring your body’s basic needs 

• Take a 10-minute walk during lunch 
• Drink an extra glass of water 
• Go to bed 15 minutes earlier 
• Stretch when you wake up 
• Dance to your favorite song 
  

Mental self-care: Create a space where your mind can breathe 

• Set boundaries with your phone 
• Practice three deep breaths when overwhelmed 
• Read a few pages of a book you enjoy 
• Organize one small space in your home 

Emotional self-care: Acknowledge your feelings without judgment 

• Reach out to a friend when you need support 
• Give yourself permission to feel without immediately trying to fix it 
• Set boundaries that protect your emotional energy 
• Engage in activities that bring you genuine joy 

Making it stick beyond July 24th 

The real power of International Self-Care Day isn't in the single day itself, it's in using this moment to plant seeds for year-round wellness. Start small. Maybe it's a five-minute morning routine, a weekly phone call with someone who makes you laugh, or simply asking yourself "What do I need right now?" before rushing into your next task. 

Self-care isn't one-size-fits-all, and it isn't something you do once and check off your list. So today, and every day after, consider this your permission slip to prioritize your well-being. Not because you have to earn it, but because you matter. Your health matters. Your peace of mind matters. And in a world that often tells us to keep pushing, sometimes the most radical thing we can do is simply rest. 

If you need additional support beyond self-care practices, we're here for you. Our compassionate team understands that sometimes self-care isn't enough, and reaching out for professional help is actually one of the most important forms of self-care. If you're in Arizona, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or Washington, Connections is available to provide specialized services tailored to your needs, ensuring individuals and families have access to the support they deserve in their time of crisis. Connections walk-in services are available at:  

• Connections Phoenix: Located at 1201 South Ave, Unit 150, Phoenix, Arizona and providing support and care to adults only. 

• Connections Tucson: Located at 2802 East District Street, Tucson, Arizona and providing services to adults and youth. 

• Connections Emergency Behavioral Health Crisis Walk-in Center: Located at 1100 S. Cameron Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and providing services to adults and youth. 

• Connections Kirkland: Located at 11410 NE 122nd Way, Kirkland, Washington and currently providing services to adults only. The center will expand to provide services to youth starting Summer 2025. 

• Connections Prince William Crisis Receiving Center: is set to open in Woodbridge, Virginia by Summer 2025, and will be located at the Prince William Crisis Receiving Center Complex at 14011 Worth Avenue. 

Not near a Connections center? Explore National Resources here. 

SOURCES:  

Self-care month 

11 Natural Ways to Lower Your Cortisol Levels