Did you know that being kind to ourselves is one of the most important things we can do in life? Looking after ourselves is as, if not more important, than looking after other people. In our society we often put others first and ourselves last. We sometimes don’t think we are deserving of love and kindness to ourselves. But if we are well, we can be at our best to enjoy life and support our friends and family. It’s a bit like the oxygen mask analogy when you go on a plane, you need to put the oxygen mask on yourself before you help others.

Self-care can be as simple as making yourself a nice cup of tea in the morning, or going for a walk in the fresh air, but there are many ways to care for yourself and support your health and wellbeing. Find an activity that nourishes you and makes you feel good, perhaps listening to music or dancing, cooking, exercise or learn a self-care technique in this section like mindfulness or forest bathing.

Caring for and looking after ourselves well means we have the best opportunity for ourselves in life and can be there to help and support the people we care about. It also gives us the best chance of being happy and physically and mentally healthy.

From meditation to wild-swimming, taking time in our lives to look after our mental health and wellbeing is essential. Find out how people in Cumbria find peace and happiness!

Here are some Tools to help with Self Care: