When we hear the phrase “self-care”, we might picture taking a day off, sleeping in, watching films or spending the whole day doing nothing. These can all be enjoyable, and sometimes they are exactly what we need. Yet self-care is more than simply stepping away from our responsibilities.
From a psychological perspective, self-care involves recognising our needs and responding to them in ways that support our well-being. This begins with awareness. Are we physically tired and in need of rest? Mentally overwhelmed and in need of some space? Feeling disconnected and needing meaningful social interaction? Or are we avoiding something that continues to weigh on us?
Mindfulness can help us develop this awareness. By paying attention to the present moment, we can notice our thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations rather than automatically reacting to them. A student who notices exhaustion may realise that proper rest would be more helpful than forcing themselves to study. Another might recognise that what they need is not more sleep, but a conversation with someone they trust or a clearer plan for managing their workload.
The same activity can also serve different purposes. Watching a favourite series may help someone genuinely unwind, while repeatedly using entertainment to avoid a problem may leave the underlying issue unresolved. Rest is not the problem; we need to pay attention to what our choices are doing for us.
Self-care, then, is not about being productive all the time, nor is it about escaping our responsibilities. It is about slowing down, noticing what we need and making intentional choices that help us care for ourselves in the long run.
Tan Wei Jun
Lecturer, School of Psychology
