What Even Is Self-Care?

It’s a term that is used so often, banded about like a badge of honour, but can often feel like just one more thing to add to the to-do list. Scrolling through social media can feel like everyone is doing it with great flourish and ah-do: bubble baths, scented candles, yoga (although fantastic), drinking smoothies with long recipes and exotic ingredients, or subscribing to a new supplement. Whilst all those things can be nice, they do not really touch the surface of what self-care actually is.

In its essence, self-care is anything you do with intention and purpose to take care of you, your whole self. That includes your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing.

In a world that runs 24/7, taking time for yourself can feel selfish or indulgent, but let me assure you, this is not the case. Just as you know, in order for your home to keep you warm, safe, and comfortable, you need to maintain it, have it serviced, and spend time caring for it. You, and your wellbeing, are no different.

Genuine self-care is often not shiny, glamorous, or shared on social media. It can simply be stepping outside with your mid-morning tea instead of drinking it at your desk, or heading to bed 15 minutes earlier instead of watching one more reel by your favourite artist (although of course, that’s fine too).

Wellbeing, and by default self-care, are often sold in modern society as picture-perfect, idyllic experiences where everything aligns into a beautiful zen moment. That can happen, but more often than not it doesn’t. Expectations are then shattered, when in reality self-care is made up of small, daily moments that offer glimmers of respite amongst the whirlwind.

Self-care is not something we earn. It is self-respect. It isn’t saved for when all our resources are exhausted or when we are already burnt out. It’s not just for holidays, birthdays, or spa days - it’s part of everyday life.

Self-care looks different for each of us. For one person it might be exercise; for another it may be clocking off 30 minutes early to walk home instead of commuting. It can be boundaries, slowing down, reading a book, shopping and cooking a new recipe for dinner, or watching nature unfold from a park bench for five minutes. There isn’t a checklist or a how-to guide. It’s about listening to what you need and shaping small moments into each day.

Current society is built to want more: more productivity, more hustle, more hours given in the pursuit of achievement. Self-care is recognising that rest is not lazy. It’s not about caring less or standards slipping. It’s about ensuring you are cared for, rested, and given time.

So, what even is self-care?

It’s simply doing what you need - not what others are doing or what you feel you should be doing. It’s noticing the pull of stress, the rise of the inner critic, or the weight of overwhelm, and choosing to respond with self-kindness.

Personally, I think of self-care as self-investment - choosing to be intentional through self-love.

Take the Next Step in Your Self-Care Journey

Self-care isn’t just a concept—it’s a practice you can start today. At Ripples Wellbeing, our team of counsellors and wellbeing experts can support you in creating small, intentional moments that make a real difference to your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

Book a session today and start prioritising yourself with guidance and support that works for your life

Book a session today