International Self-Care Day 2025
When we talk about self-care, it’s often misunderstood as indulgent or selfish. But in reality, it’s a foundational act of responsibility. Consider the principle behind the instructions we receive from the pilot and flight attendants during pre-flight boarding of a commercial airplane: that in the event of an emergency or drop in cabin pressurization, a passenger must secure their own oxygen mask before assisting others. This illustration highlights the need to care for oneself before others, not to be seen as an act of selfishness, but instead as recognition that one cannot effectively support those around them if their own well-being is compromised. Prioritizing self-care enables an individual to be present, resilient and capable of making a meaningful difference in the lives of others including their own.
It is no coincidence that the Federal Government of Canada has recognized International Self-Care Day as a calendar day for health promotion on July 24 every year (Government of Canada, 2025). The Honourable Jane Philpott recognized the “important role self-care plays in Canadians’ lives” and encouraged ongoing conversation including taking care of oneself by eating well, exercising, resting appropriately and enjoying quality time with loved ones (Philpott, J., Government of Canada, 2017).
Self-care is a fundamental practice centered on the preservation and enhancement of one’s own health. Health is a foundational principle embedded in legal systems. On a global scale, the United Nations (UN) as per Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights upholds the right to good health (United Nations, 2025). On a national scale, Canada contends that section 7 (right to life, liberty and security) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms includes access to health (Chaoulli v. Quebec (Attorney General), 2005 SCC 35 (CanLII), [2005] 1 SCR 791). Ontario has legislated safeguards and advisories from those suffering from health (For example: involuntary detainment via Form 42, et cetera (Mental Health Act, RSO 1990, c M.7).
We can all participate in and observe International Self-Care Day by attending to the seven pillars of self-care as advised by the International Self-Care Foundation (International Self-Care Foundation, 2025).
- One must educate themselves in matters of self-care.
- To optimistically approach life with purpose and understanding that “health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
- Be physically active on a regular basis.
- Avoid an unhealthy diet, which includes overeating and eating nutrient-inferior.
- Mitigate against risks related to health, which include appropriate / controlled use of legal drugs (Including coffee, tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, etc.), complete avoidance of illegal narcotics and maintaining self-protection in compromising situations.
- Practice good hygiene, not only on one’s person but also in one’s working, living and associating environments.
- Rational use of self-care products including medicines, topical products and actively participating in wellness / health services.
While self-care should be considered a necessity, it has increasingly become associated with luxury, which is accessible primarily to those with the time and financial means to indulge in it. When one thinks of self-care, they often imagine opulent scenarios such as professional massages or spa-like treatments. However, it can simply be regular exercise, going for a relaxing nature walk, practicing mindfulness, journaling or even setting boundaries to protect one’s mental and emotional well-being. Self-care should be enshrined into one’s daily routine, especially when considering our current era where burnout, chronic stress and mental health challenges are common.
Remember: Secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others; otherwise, you risk not being able to save anyone including yourself.