Self-care – what is it?
The term self-care is everywhere these days. Often paired with buzzwords like self-love and being kind to yourself, it can start to feel a little vague — or even indulgent. But here’s the truth: at university, especially as deadlines begin to stack up and the pace picks up, looking after your physical and mental wellbeing isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. 🌿
At its heart, self-care is about not letting stress and work take over your life, even during the busiest times. And it’s important to remember: self-care doesn’t look the same for everyone 💛
🌙 What Does Self-Care Actually Look Like?
It can be as simple (and powerful) as:
- Eating food that fuels your body
- Getting genuinely restful sleep
- Letting yourself take a guilt-free break when you’re overwhelmed
It could be:
- A walk through the trees or by the sea to clear your head 🌊
- A yoga flow, a dance break, or an intense gym session 🏋️♀️
- Reading something just for joy — no citations required 📚
- Tidying your space so it feels like a haven, not a stress zone
- Or yes, indulging in a little treat — just because
💡 Whatever helps you feel more you — more centred, calm, or connected — is valid.
🧠 Because If You Don’t Make Time for Wellness…
…you may find yourself forced to make time for illness. The truth is: running on empty doesn’t get you further — it burns you out. And no deadline or grade is worth your health.
Self-care is preventative, protective, and personal. It’s not a checklist — it’s a conversation with yourself. What do I need right now? What would help me feel just 5% better?
🌟 Gentle Reminder: You Deserve to Feel OK
At the end of the day, self-care means listening to your body and brain — and being kind enough to respond. It’s about recognising that you are not a machine, and productivity isn’t the only marker of a good day.
So, as you move through the rest of the semester, try to check in with yourself regularly. Make space for small moments of rest and joy, and build in recovery like you would a revision session.
Because you deserve to feel well, supported, and cared for — not just when the work is done, but along the way. And when you do that? You show up as your best self when it matters most 💫
- Patrick – student communication intern
Do you have some self-care tips for us?