Self-Care: Why It Matters and Where to Start

By Eugenia "Jenna" Fibiger, Clinical Therapist & Psychometrist at CBM

Published March 2026 

You’ve definitely heard it mentioned before but what is it exactly? Self-care is just a fancy way of saying, “Take care of yourself!” It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s simply about doing things that help you feel good, relaxed, and happy. Think of it like recharging your phone—you need to recharge yourself, too! Taking small moments to care for yourself keeps you calm and ready for anything life may throw at you.

Why Self-Care Is Important

You might feel self-care is selfish, but it’s actually the opposite! By tuning into your own needs with kindness and respect, you can see immense benefits including:

• Reduced stress levels

• Increased energy levels

• Being kinder to others & developing stronger relationships

• Staying healthy both mentally and physically

• Being able to handle tough days better

Skipping self-care is a lot like running a car without stopping for gas—it won’t work for long! Everyone needs a break sometimes.

Easy Self-Care Ideas

Self-care looks different for everyone and what recharges each of us when we’re low is very individual. Anything can be self care if you’re approaching it with a sense of compassion and not obligation.

Here are some simple ways to practice it:

Physical Self-Care:

• Get enough sleep (think of it as a mini vacation every night!)

• Eat foods that make you feel good (fruit, veggies, or your favorite treat on a hard day)

• Get your body moving on a walk or dance in your living room

• Take a warm shower or bath

Emotional Self-Care:

• Write your thoughts in a journal

• Call a friend and chat about anything

• Watch a movie that makes you laugh

• Say “no” when you need a break

Mental Self-Care:

• Take a break from your phone or social media

• Try a new hobby (painting, cooking, puzzles)

• Clean up your room or workspace

• Listen to your favorite music

The best self-care is what makes YOU feel happy and calm. Maybe it’s sipping tea, reading a comic book, or organizing your sock drawer! The key is to tune in and ask: “What makes me feel good, calm, or recharged today?”

What Happens When You Practice Self-Care?

When you make time for self-care, you:

• Feel less anxious, worried, or down

• Are more patient and understanding with others

• Get along better with family and friends

• Bounce back faster from tough days

• Stay healthier, both in body and mind

Studies show that people who practice self-care are happier, have better relationships, and feel less stressed on a daily basis. Life may still knock you down at times but you’ll get right back up so much faster!

How to Start Self-Care Today

Carving out time in a busy schedule for self-care can feel difficult but there are so many small ways you can start caring for yourself today. Try these:

• Set a reminder to check in with yourself (“How am I feeling?”)

• Make a mini ritual, like deep breathing for two minutes each morning

• Enjoy a treat you love, guilt-free

• Say “not right now” if you need to rest

• Create a self-care toolbox: a book, playlist, snack, or cozy blanket

Remember, self-care isn’t about being perfect or another item off your to do list. It’s about being kind to yourself, even on busy days. It is so easy to let self-care slip through the cracks but remember: you deserve the same care you give to others!

Everyone needs a little self-care. The smallest acts—like taking a breath, listening to music, or saying “no: Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness toward ourselves can make the biggest difference. Try it out and see how much better you feel!

References

•  Terry, M. L., & Leary, M. R. (2011). Self-compassion, self-regulation, and health. Self and Identity, 10(3), 352–362.

• So WWY, Lu EY, Cheung WM, Tsang HWH. Comparing Mindful and Non-Mindful Exercises on Alleviating Anxiety Symptoms. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020; 17(22):8692.

• Vasquez, T. S., Bruno, C. M., Harris, V. W., & Visconti, B. (2025). Exploring the Relationship Between Self-Care, Partner Communication, and Family Harmony. Journal of Family Issues, 46(3), 512-534.

Questions?

If you have questions at any point, please contact:

 📞 905-492-1152
📧 admin@cbmpsychologicalservices.com

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