Have you ever skipped meals, ignored your needs, or squeezed in one more email while feeling overwhelmed? Self-care is something we all know we need, but we often treat it as optional.
Self-care is a necessity for everyone. A frazzled student remembers nothing, a sleep-deprived parent misplaces things, and a teacher without self-care might find their creativity disappearing.
At its core, self-care is the regular practice of tuning in to how you feel and what you need. This involves daily habits that help your mind and body unwind and recharge. Self-care looks different for everyone. What works for one person might not work for someone else.
Making self-care a habit
Self-care takes time and intentionality. Try setting your alarm clock 10 minutes earlier for meditation or put a reminder on your phone to take a reading break. It is normal for the “fullness” of your self-care cup to ebb and flow over time, and it is okay if it sometimes seems empty. Noticing is an important first step that lets you reorganise to prioritise yourself.
Any time Self-Care tips
Pause and take three slow, deep breaths. Imagine you are calm and relaxed, even if you must roll your eyes at stress.
Kind Self-Talk -Hint: “You’re doing amazing” works better than “why me?”
Mini-Movement – Stretch, walk, or dance. Make the moment joyful by listening to your favourite music.
Screen-Free Mini-Break – Step away from your screens for 5–10 minutes.
Laugh Out Loud – Watch a funny video or share a joke. Science says it works.
Counsellor recommends “3 Good Things” Exercise or the Gratitude Exercise
Let us be honest, between homework, meetings, and mysteriously disappearing pens, it is easy to forget the good stuff. That is where the “3 Good Things” exercise comes in. Backed by research, it is an effortless way to boost happiness and well-being.
Each day, take a moment to write down three things that went well and that you feel grateful for. Families can even turn this into a shared ritual—gather around the dining table and let everyone share their “three good things.” When I tried this practice myself, it seemed simple at first, just a few quick notes each night. But within weeks, I noticed a real change—I smiled more, complained less, and ended my days feeling lighter and more thankful.
A few minutes of reflection, a breath of kindness, and a dose of laughter—that is how you refill your cup.
ELIZABETH SURYA
SUPERVISOR –WELL-BEING
