Why self care is part of self management
- Written by: Grace Beaumont — Development Officer
- Published: 13th May 2020
ALLIANCE Development Officer Grace reflects on self care and its importance as part of a wider self management routine.
In the last few years the topic of self care and wellbeing has been widely discussed. The isolation and fear that came with COVID-19 has made practicing self care more important than ever. This looks different for everyone, but the single most important part of this is, I believe, being kind to yourself.
The line between self management and self care is blurry. At the ALLIANCE we say self management means people are ‘in the driving seat’ of their own health, meaning they are also supported by the people around them, whereas I would suggest self care is something you do by yourself, for yourself.
No matter what you call it, looking after ourselves as well as others is vitally important so that we don’t burn out. Living in a pandemic is stressful and we need to be more kind, more patient and set clear boundaries with ourselves and others in our lives.
Before the pandemic, most of us went somewhere away from our home to work. Having a commute can help to clear your mind and provided a mental as well as a physical separation between home and working life. It is important to find a routine that works for you and to be clear on when you are working and when you are not. This is an important aspect of wellbeing as the creep of work into your personal life can increase stress, wreak havoc with your sleep and lead to lower mood and productivity.
Establishing a routine which incorporates work, play and rest is one of the most effective ways you can take care of yourself, improve mood and maintain your physical and mental health. In the newest Wellbeing Wednesday, you can get to grips with Pain Association’s ‘Self Management Bootcamp’ which takes you through all of the most important parts of effective self management and self care.
It is also important to recognise your limits and make time to check in with yourself. Mindfulness works for some people, if you would like to try it then we have a podcast on colouring for mindfulness that offers a short taster. This is a good way to relax, clear your mind, and notice any invasive thoughts which may help you deal with them.
Make time for yourself, be kind to yourself and recognise the importance of self care as part of your self management.
End of page.
End of page.
You may also like:
The ALLIANCE’s Humans of Scotland project works to challenge stigma.
Continue readingIn her latest TFN column, our Chief Officer Sara Redmond reflects on post election feelings and Scotland’s future.
Continue readingALLIANCE Chief Officer, Sara Redmond, reflects on our Annual Conference 2026 and how we're turning hope into action.
Continue readingALLIANCE member, Catherine, shares the importance of initiatives like 'What Matters To You?' Day in promoting person centred care.
Continue readingLearn about how the ALLIANCE has championed joined-up, person centred care.
Continue readingDementia Action Week highlighted some great resources and support for people living with dementia and their family, friends, and carers.
Continue readingSteven Mair gives us an insight into his role as a gamer at the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.
Continue readingSince 2009, ALISS has helped people find local health and wellbeing support. Any group, big or small, can add their information.
Continue readingThe new Scottish Government must turn promises into action to improve hospice and palliative care
Continue readingTogether, we can create lasting change for everyone living with Crohn’s or Colitis.
Continue readingFind out more about these digital self management tools and how to get in touch to arrange an information session.
Continue readingOur Chief Officer Sara Redmond addresses recent commentary on the relationship between Government and the Third Sector.
Continue readingCornell explores how we can build an environmental human rights-based culture
Continue readingLouise Coupland, Digital Health and Social Care Programme Manager shares her opinions on the national roll out of MyCare.scot.
Continue readingChris Mackie, Director of Digital, looks back at how ALISS has developed, grown, and innovated over time.
Continue readingCrohn’s and Colitis care in Scotland is at a pivotal moment. Urgent action is needed to tackle delays and poor access to vital services
Continue readingThe ALLIANCE’s Lewis Shaw reflects on the importance of rehabilitation support.
Continue readingIsabella Goldie of Deafblind Scotland reflects on the value of partnership work.
Continue readingFind out more about the inaugural Power of Attorney Day taking place on 22 April 2026.
Continue readingDr Hannah Tweed reflects on 20 years of the Scottish Sensory Hub, the important work they do and why it matters.
Continue readingAs part of our 20 year anniversary, Kerry shares her reflections on how far the ALLIANCE has come, our achievements, and our impact.
Continue readingIn her latest TFN column, our Chief Officer Sara Redmond reflects on 20 years since Scotland moved to put children at the centre of policy.
Continue readingCancer care in Scotland is at a critical moment. Macmillan is calling for urgent action ahead of the parliamentary elections in May
Continue readingMhairi Campbell reflects on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) not being recognised as having a severe impact on life.
Continue readingLucy Mulvagh shares how she used the Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellowship to examine prevention and its barriers to implementation
Continue reading