What is self-care?
Self-care is more than just having a hot bath.
Self-care refers to the things you can do to look after yourself and reduce stress.
Why is it important?
There are many benefits of self-care. It can help you to cope when things are tough and can help you manage feelings like anxiety and low mood.
How can we ‘do’ self-care?
There are many things you can do to look after yourself. No matter what you choose, the goal is to find activities that work best for you. Finding ways to build self-care into your day to day life can boost your well-being.
Self-care ideas for adults and parents…
o Exercise or do some stretches
o Do some colouring or doodling
o Listen to music or a podcast that makes you happy
o Read a good book or magazine
o If you enjoy cooking or baking, make something comforting that you enjoy
o Talk to friends and family
o Make time to look after your body, use a nice hand cream or have a relaxing bath or shower
o Go for a walk or spend some time outside in the fresh air
o Take some time away from your phone, even if it’s just a break from reading the news or social media
Self-care ideas for young people and families…
o Watch a good film
o Do something kind for someone in your family
o Try a creative activity like drawing or painting
o Go for a walk
o Have a dance party
o Spend time outside with nature
o Practice positive self-talk – tell yourself what you do really well or write down what you like about yourself
o Read together
o Play! In the park, board games, or wherever you can!
Information developed by: The Congenital Cardiology Psychology and Counselling Team. You can download the Leeds Teaching Hospitals Self-Care info booklet here.
Running for Ruben – Laurie’s 5th Great North Run
Heart hero Ruben was born in 2019 with coarctation of the aorta. He had open heart surgery at just 3 days old, but mum Laurie Higgins says he is now a ‘happy and healthy’ 6 year old thanks to the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit team. Laurie tells us why she has chosen to...
Oral Health Month: The importance of dental health when your child has CHD
The oral health of children with congenital heart disease is particularly important as they are at an increased risk of developing bacterial infections such as infective endocarditis. To celebrate #OralHealthMonth, here’s some important information from experts at the...
Pat & Sue’s Skydive for CHSF
Pat & Sue work with heart dad Dan Tansey at the Co-op. After hearing Dan’s story and seeing his passion for raising funds for CHSF in 2025, they felt inspired to get involved too! Wanting to show their support, they decided to take to the skies and brave a...