Self-Care Tips from Team Grandview

July 24 is International Self-Care Day, a day to highlight the importance of self-care in supporting overall health and well-being. Self-care helps restore energy, sharpen focus and foster a positive mindset by ensuring our basic needs are met. It does not need to be elaborate or costly, but it should be meaningful and tailored to each individual. Self-care looks different for everyone. Whether it’s taking time to rest, recharge or indulge, prioritizing your own well-being can help you show up as the best version of yourself.

While self-care looks different for everyone, fresh ideas can help inspire new ways to recharge and care for ourselves. Members of Team Grandview’s Family Engagement and Social Work teams shared some of their favourite self-care tips below!

Step outside for fresh air

Open a window, sit on your porch or go for a short walk. Even a few minutes of fresh air can provide mental clarity, ease stress and help you reset.

Schedule “me time”

Make time for things that bring you joy, even if it’s a solo grocery run, a cozy face mask, your favourite TV show or movie, a manicure or a quiet cup of coffee. Even simple rituals matter.

Move your body

Exercise can take many forms! Whether it’s lifting weights, going for a walk, playing tennis, pickleball or even a game of pick-up dodgeball with colleagues. Regular movement boosts your mood, supports heart health and improves energy levels.

Read a book or magazine!

Reading offers a break from daily stress. Whether it’s fiction, memoir or poetry, immersing yourself in a good book can be restorative.

Sit in nature

Find a peaceful moment outdoors, whether you’re at the lake, a local park or watching the sunset from your window. Nature has a calming effect that helps you pause and reflect.

Connect with others who “get it”

Joining a peer support group, especially one connected to your lived experience can offer encouragement, practical advice and emotional strength. You are not alone. There’s comfort in spending time with those who understand your challenges. Whether you’re sending memes back and forth or sharing a latte in person, those small connections count.

Explore creativity

Don’t wait for “someday.” Try a new hobby like painting, crochet, macramé or cooking a recipe from another culture. Creative outlets can re-energize and inspire.

Journal your thoughts

Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions and celebrating growth. Start small, or dive deep into telling your story, your lived experience matters.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up

Supportive friends and loved ones offer comfort, laughter and the kind of company that recharges your spirit, even if it’s just through a meme exchange or quick chat.

Snuggle with a furry friend

Pets offer comfort and help ground us in the moment. Time spent with animals can be a calming and joyful part of your routine.

Practice mindful breathing

Breathing exercises like box breathing or TIPP (temperature, intense exercise, paired muscle relaxation and paced breathing) can reduce anxiety and bring focus.

Spend quality time with loved ones

Time with family and friends can be an important form of self-care. It helps us feel safe, supported and connected.

Explore new places

Visiting vintage markets, museums, historical sites or even nearby towns can refresh your perspective and spark joy.

Try gardening

Spending time in the garden, even just playing in the dirt can be meditative. It’s a great way to unwind and reconnect with nature.