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September 20, 2018International Self-Care Day ~ Why It's Important
Today is International Self-Care Day. This day brings awareness to the importance of self-care not on a short-term basis but for every day of the year. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle that will keep you feeling good throughout your life. There are seven pillars of self-care; Knowledge & Health Literacy, Mental Wellbeing, Physical Activity, Healthy Eating, Risk Avoidance or Mitigation, Good Hygiene, and Rational & Responsible use of self-care products & services.
Pillar 1: Knowledge & Health Literacy
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health literacy as representing “The cognitive and social skills which determine the motivation and ability of individuals to gain access to, understand and use information in ways to promote and maintain good health”. This means you understand the information given to you by health care professionals, you understand you are the master of your own health, and that you will seek out help when needed.
Pillar 2: Mental Well-being
The World Health Organisation defines mental health as "a state of wellbeing in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community."
Pillar 3: Physical Activity
The WHO defines physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure. It's important to participate in regular physical activities as it significantly improves your health, fitness, and mood.
Pillar 4: Healthy Eating
Health eating has shown to have preventative benefits, reducing the risk of many non-communicable diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. The World Health Organisation has estimated that 2.8 million people die as a result of obesity each year. It's important to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts. You should also limit the amount of sodium, sugar, and saturated fats you eat. Life is all about balance.
Pillar 5: Risk Avoidance or Mitigation
Risk mitigation refers to the avoidance or reduction of behaviours that directly increase the risk of disease or death such as; not smoking/quitting, safe sex, drinking in moderation, using sunscreen, wear your seatbelt and drive carefully, and wearing your helmet when on any more of bikes.
Pillar 6: Good Hygiene
Hygiene refers to the conditions and practices that help to maintain health and prevent the spread of diseases. Good hygiene includes; good hand washing techniques, proper food preparation, showering on a regular basis and proper oral health practices.
Pillar 7: Rational & Responsible Use of Self-Care
The rational and responsible use of health products and services involves you safely and effectively managing your health when needed, through medicines, products or services. This includes medications, vitamins, dental care, regular checkups, using bug spray & sunscreen, wellness services like the gym or nutritionist, and health services like acupuncture, chiropractor, massage therapist etc.
