BUXTON: Self-Care Day Is on the Way!
Published 5:00 am Sunday, July 12, 2026
Kristin Buxton. (Patrick Davies photo – 100 Mile Free Press) (Patrick Davies)
Whether you have been reading my columns for some time or you are a new follower, you probably know that self-care is something I am very passionate about, some might even say a little preachy about it! With Self-Care Day fast approaching on July 24, I wanted to offer my yearly reminder about the importance of self-care and the many ways we can practice it
While most people understand that self-care is important, I still feel that many of us put it on the back burner. We often do more for others than we do for ourselves. As humans, we tend to put ourselves last and prioritize everyone and everything else, our families, work, chores, and endless to-do lists
Putting ourselves first is not always easy, especially when life feels busy. Even when life doesn’t seem particularly hectic, there always seems to be something that needs our attention
Sometimes we’re simply not feeling motivated to focus on ourselves. No matter what the reason, self-care is vital for our mental well-being. It affects how we feel physically and can make a huge difference in the way we show up for ourselves and for others
I think there are still many misconceptions surrounding self-care and what it actually looks like. It may be very different from what you imagine. Before we explore what self-care can look like, let’s talk about why it is so important. You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that self-care isn’t all bubble baths and spa days
When we practice self-care, we are choosing to put ourselves first. We are taking the time to prioritize our own needs, listen to our bodies, and give ourselves the opportunity to reset. We can become so caught up in both the struggles and adventures of life that we forget to focus on our own well-being. Self-care allows us to pause, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves so that we can continue moving forward in a healthy way
As I have mentioned before, self-care is not always about bubble baths or spa days. Sometimes it is the furthest thing from that. Self-care can take many different forms, and what works one week may not work the next. It often helps to have a ready-to-go arsenal of self-care options available
It’s great to have some activities that take little time, some that are free, and others that you can indulge in when time and money allow
That way, when you’re facing a time crunch or a money crunch, there are fewer reasons to skip taking care of yourself. I know that when there is something I should be prioritizing, I can often find 10 reasons not to do it. When it comes to self-care, the fewer excuses we have, the better
If you find that you never seem to have the time, try scheduling it. Putting self-care into your calendar can help ensure that time is set aside just for you. You can plan the rest of your schedule around it while protecting that space. That being said, self-care doesn’t always need to be scheduled. It can be spontaneous, too, if that works better for you
It also doesn’t have to happen every day. Whether it’s once a week, once a month, or somewhere in between, the important thing is that you are making time for it
I will start with my own go-to forms of self-care. My first and foremost favourite is hitting the back roads. As soon as I turn onto a dirt road, whether I’m in my Jeep or on my feet, my mind quiets down. There are no bills, no work, no worries, and no problems. The noise stops, and my mind becomes still. I am simply present in the moment, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying every
minute of it
We are so fortunate to live where we do. Even when I don’t have the opportunity to head out on a back road, we have some wonderful trails right here in town. The waterfall trail in Centennial Park and the trail around the marsh offer beautiful places to reconnect with nature. While they may not be the same as getting lost among the trees on a back road adventure, they still provide many of the same benefits. Spending time surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature can help quiet our minds and leave us feeling refreshed.
Of course, spa visits and hot bubble baths are also wonderful self-care options. They provide an opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy a little peace and quiet
Sometimes, however, self-care can look very different. It might mean paying a bill that has been weighing on your mind and finally getting that stress off your shoulders. It might mean setting boundaries in situations that have been causing anxiety or emotional strain. While establishing boundaries can feel uncomfortable at first, they often create a great deal of relief in the long run
Self-care can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. Anything that helps quiet your mind, relax your body, or leave you feeling refreshed can be considered self-care. The most important thing is that you are taking time out of your day to focus on yourself
Colouring, gardening, going for a walk, visiting with a friend, or enjoying a quiet morning coffee in your favourite spot are all small but meaningful ways to incorporate self-care into your daily life
These simple moments can add up and make a significant difference in your overall well-being. So, on this upcoming Self-Care Day, take some time to focus on yourself. Do something that helps quiet your mind, relax your body, and bring yourself back into the spotlight. You deserve the same care and attention that you so freely give to everyone else
Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it
• Contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is
open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m
• Call the Emergency Crisis Line 24 hours a day at 1-888-353-2273
• Call the Suicide Crisis Line at 9-8-8. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
