July 24th is International Self-Care Day!  

When you think of self-care, you probably think of doing a face mask or bubble bath, and while those are self-care activities, self-care encompasses much more. Self-care is any action that an individual takes to look after their physical, social, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Self-care is crucial to living a healthy life, and it can be as simple as setting aside time for yourself amidst a busy schedule. Allocating just an hour a day for some "me-time" can work wonders. 

Here are some activities that you can use to practice self-care, both for yourself and within your current mentor/mentee relationship. 

Pamper Yourself 

Who doesn’t love an at-home spa day? Whether you soak in a warm bath, change up your skincare routine, or snuggle in your favorite blanket on the couch, pampering is a great way to celebrate International Self-Care Day. 

Spend Time in Nature   

Regardless of the weather, spending time in nature is a great way to get back in tune with yourself and the world around you. 

Splurge on Treats 

What a perfect excuse to treat yourself! Whether you pick up your favorite sweet treat or treat yourself to a nice dinner out, taking the time to reward yourself is a great self-care practice. 

Nourish Your Body with Nutritious Food 

While it can be fun to indulge in your favorite dish or sweet treat, remember to care for your body with a nutritious diet. Take this opportunity to make a new dish with green, leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, or whole grains. 

Embrace Mindfulness 

Practicing mindfulness can enhance focus, manage stress, and foster positive emotions and thoughts. Breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga are all great self-care practices. 

Reach Out to a Loved One 

Sometimes, connecting with loved ones is the best form of self-care and can be an excellent way to celebrate yourself and everything you have to offer those around you. 

How Can You as a Big, Incorporate Self-Care Within Your Match? 

1. Modeling Healthy Behavior:

• Self-Care as an Example: When mentors actively engage in self-care practices, they demonstrate the importance of taking care of one's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This modeling can inspire young people to adopt similar habits.
• Balance and Boundaries: By showing how they balance responsibilities and set boundaries, mentors can teach mentees the value of managing time and energy effectively.

2. Incorporating Self-Care Activities:

• Joint Activities: Engage in self-care activities together, such as going for a walk, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or participating in a creative hobby. This not only strengthens the bond but also introduces the mentee to healthy ways of managing stress.
• Physical Health: Encourage physical activities like sports, yoga, or simple exercise routines that can be done together. Physical health is a critical aspect of overall well-being.

3. Emphasizing Mental Health:

• Open Conversations: Create a safe space for the mentee to talk about their feelings and stresses. Discussing mental health openly can reduce stigma and promote seeking help when needed.
• Stress Management Techniques: Teach and practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, or positive affirmations.

4. Encouraging Independence:

• Self-Care Skills: Help the mentee develop their own self-care skills. This can include time management, setting personal goals, and recognizing when they need to take a break.
• Resource Sharing: Provide resources like books, apps, or websites that offer guidance on self-care practices. Encourage the mentee to explore and find what works best for them.

5. Promoting Positive Relationships:

• Support Networks: Encourage the mentee to build and maintain a supportive network of friends and family. Healthy relationships are a key component of self-care.
• Community Involvement: Engage in community activities together. This can help build a sense of belonging and support.

6. Regular Check-Ins:

• Consistent Support: Regularly check in on the mentee’s well-being and self-care routines. This consistent support reinforces the importance of self-care and shows that their well-being matters to you.
• Goal Setting: Set self-care goals together and celebrate milestones. This can motivate the mentee to continue prioritizing their self-care.