In a world that often feels like it is pressuring  us to keep going, keep doing, keep giving—it can feel almost subversive to pause for thought and take time to care for ourselves. Our conditioning may have led us to connect rest with laziness, making us feel that slowing down could mean falling behind. Just the thought of taking time for ourselves can stir up feelings of guilt or self-doubt.

But the truth is, self-care isn’t selfish or indulgent. It’s necessary. The World Health Organisation informs us that self-care is about how individuals, families, and communities take steps to look after their health, prevent illness, stay well, and manage health challenges  —whether they do so on their own or with help from a healthcare professional (2024). Self-care allows us to reconnect with who we are beneath the noise and the demands. When we choose to care for ourselves, we’re gently unlearning the idea that our worth is measured by how productive or useful we are.

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate or complicated. It might be saying no when something doesn’t feel right. It might be taking a quiet moment with a cup of tea, going for a walk, or reaching out to someone you trust. And sometimes, it can mean deciding to talk to someone who will really listen.

Counselling is a powerful form of self-care. It’s a space where you put yourself right at the top of your to-do list —where your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are of paramount importance and are held with care and respect. Choosing to enter counselling can be a radical act of loving kindness towards yourself.

Therapy is a profound way of showing up for yourself.