Self-care is essential for both mental and physical health. Self-care is "the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health” and “the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress” (Oxford).

There appears to be some misconception that self-care is something of a luxury, an indulgence or ‘selfish’. However self-care (caring for oneself) is a necessary part of staying well. It involves basic things such as choosing the right food to eat, engaging in exercise, nurturing relationships, committing to forming good habits and paying your taxes on time, as well as sleeping in, getting a massage, speaking up or walking out.

The issue comes from what people interpret as self-care

I recently gave myself a little Instagram challenge - “100 ways in 100 days of Self-Care”. I set myself the task of really getting into ‘What is Self-Care?’ Because self-care is often thought of a bubble-bath, a massage or a date night - fantastic short term relaxation or time out.

However, sometimes self-care is a big plate of vegetables and a good hard walk.

The challenge in our life is