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What is Self-Care

Self-Care involves listening to your needs and taking small, intentional steps to support your mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being. 

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Everday Tips

  • Meditation

    • Try this: Set a timer for 2 minutes, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. 

  • Practice Mindfulness

    • Try this: Set a timer for 2 minutes and try box breathing: inhaling through the nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4, then exhaling through the mouth for 4 seconds. ​

  • Journal

    • Try this: Take 5 minutes tonight to write down 3 things you are grateful for or things that went well today.

  • Exercise

    • ​Try this: Take 10 minutes today to walk, stretch, or do a quick set of exercises. How does your energy and mood feel after?​

  • Spend time in nature

    • Try this: Take a short walk on campus without headphones. What sounds, colours and smells do you notice?

  • Connect with others

    • Reach out to a friend or family member and send a quick check-in message. How do you feel after connecting?

  • Create a healthy sleep routine

    • Try this: Turn off screens 30 minutes to 1 hour before bed and do a relaxing activity such as reading. Reflect on the quality of your sleep in the morning. ​

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Reflection Prompts

Self-care looks different for everybody. Try using some of the prompts below to reflect on what supports your well-being. 

  • How does connecting with others impact your mental health?

  • What self-care habit makes you feel the most grounded?

  • What is one self-care tip you want to try today?

  • What patterns do you notice in your stress, mood, and/or energy levels throughout the week?

  • What signs tell you that you’re starting to feel overwhelmed?

  • What environments (quiet, nature, music, social spaces, etc.) help you feel the best?

  • What boundaries do you set to protect your mental and emotional well-being?

  • What activities make you feel calm or recharged?

  • What is one small thing you can do this week to take care of your future self?

Self-Care Checklist

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Self-Care involves listening to your needs and taking small, intentional steps to support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. 

Looking for support beyond self-care? Visit our Support & Resources page

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