Chronic stress has a very real impact on the immune system. It raises inflammation, disrupts hormones, drains energy, and can make autoimmune symptoms even worse. You might not always feel stressed, but your body knows. It keeps the score. And when we skip self-care, we’re missing out on the vital rest our body requires to heal. The truth is self-care isn’t optional, it’s essential.
What is Self-Care?
Self-care is the practice of taking deliberate actions to protect and improve your well-being by managing stress and combating illness. It does not necessarily mean booking a luxury weekend retreat (although that does sound lovely!). In everyday life self-care is about intentionally creating space in your week to rest, nourish your nervous system, and remind yourself that you are worthy of care — especially when your energy is low or your symptoms flare.
It is important that we take time to slow down, breathe deeply, and honor what our bodies need, shifting out of survival mode and into healing mode. Many times this means stepping away from our stressful, demanding lives and taking the time to do something just for the joy and peace it brings to us. Allowing ourselves this time to rest is a powerful act of self love that also bolsters our immune system.
Simple Ideas for Self Care
You don’t need hours. You just need intention. Here are some ways to build self-care into your week:
- A quiet morning walk in the sun
- Journaling your thoughts or writing one thing you’re grateful for
- Enjoying a nourishing meal without electronic distractions
- Turning off notifications and reading something uplifting
- A peaceful bubble bath before bed
- Saying no to one thing that drains you
- A 20 minute nap without guilt
Make It a Non-Negotiable
In your new wellness era, self-care isn’t the reward at the end of the week — it’s part of the plan. Block it off in your calendar. Set reminders. Protect that time. Because when you care for yourself consistently, you’re sending a message to your body: I’m safe. I’m supported. I’m healing.
When you choose to show up for yourself in these small ways, you’re not being selfish, you are strengthening your foundation for wellness. Each act of self-care lowers stress, supports your immune system, and creates space for your body to restore balance.
Put it Into Practice
Try one small practice this week. Notice how your body responds. Over time, these small, intentional moments will add up to powerful change. Remember it’s about consistency and compassion not perfection. The more you honor your needs, the healthier you will be and the more energy you’ll have to show up for the things (and people) that matter most.
Want even more help? Click here for a FREE printable Self Care Menu to help you brainstorm more ways to support your physical, mental and emotional health daily.