Submission: 5 Ways to Celebrate International Self-Care Day
Burnout is a serious issue in Egypt, among both adults and students. According to a 2017 study of Egyptian teachers, 100 percent experienced occupational stress.
Either because of excessive stress or even workaholism, people often neglect to take care of themselves. So it’s imperative that we take time off work to do so — and what better time than on International Self-Care Day?
International Self-Care Day was established in 2011 by the UK-based International Self-Care Foundation (ISF). It was created to raise awareness around the world of self-care and self-care interventions, and is observed annually on 24 July.
Pace Hospitals defines self-care as “actively protecting your happiness and well-being, especially during times of stress.” So, to mark International Self-Care Day 2023, here are some tips to maintain your well-being.
Get Up and Move
The National Institute of Mental Health recommends exercise as a means of self-care. That doesn’t mean religiously going to the gym or even participating in intense exercise routines at home; it can be as simple as walking for thirty minutes a day.
Apart from providing a change of scenery and allowing you to unplug, exercise has many positive effects, including the benefit to your mood. It can even be done with friends, turning the walk into an enjoyable social event.
Prioritize Sleep
While this may seem like a fairly obvious self-care tip, more than 40 percent of people in the Middle East suffer from sleep disorders, Dr. Rasha Mahmoud, head of the pulmonology and sleep unit at Almana Hospital Group in Saudi Arabia, tells Arab News.
In addition, a 2017 study at Bupa Cromwell Hospital confirmed that Egyptians need more sleep, specifically citing harmful sleeping habits.
The Center for Disease Control recommends that teenagers get 8 to 10 hours of sleep, while adults need 7 or more per night. Sleeping well has many benefits, including: maintaining or losing weight, increasing concentration and productivity, supporting your immune system, and improving mood.
Do Something About You Every Day
During the daily competition of work or study, it’s easy to classify the things you enjoy as a waste of time. However, taking some time each day to do something you love can often benefit you.
It could be anything from practicing a creative hobby such as painting or dancing, to going out for coffee with your friends – and it doesn’t have to be the same activity every day. As long as you enjoy a change of pace, anything is an option.
Allowing a small daily indulgence is not only a form of self-care, but it reduces stress, discourages low mood, and fights depression.
Take Positive
While toxic positivity tends to make matters worse by denying life’s glaring problems, a realistic but optimistic attitude is good for maintaining a positive mindset.
Especially with all the stresses of modern Egyptian life, from safety concerns to the economy, it can be hard to stay positive. However, there are many benefits to doing so.
According to the Mayo Clinic, positive thinking can lead to lower levels of distress, greater resistance to illness, and increased coping skills during times of stress. Embracing positivity is self-care of your mind and may take the form of looking on the bright side of a situation or refusing to engage in negative self-talk.
Keep a Routine
Whether it’s a skin care routine, exercise routine, or even a daily schedule, maintaining an enjoyable routine as well as a viable self-care option is beneficial to your mental health.
Not only does it give you the freedom to engage in an activity of your choice that may have distinct health benefits, but it also gives you control over a hectic life.
No matter which routine you choose, there are some universal benefits to keeping one, such as reduced anxiety and increased productivity.
Whichever of these tips you choose to act on, make sure to set aside time for yourself this International Self-Care Day.
Subscribe to the weekly Streets of Egypt newsletter! See the latest news, arts and culture headlines, exclusive features and more stories that matter, delivered straight to your inbox by clicking here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
