Self-care necessary but often overlooked
By Lethbridge Herald on July 26, 2025.
Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Personal wellness through self-care is often overlooked in our busy world, as the demands of work, technology, and daily responsibilities pull our focus outward. Yet without proactive intentional care for our physical, mental, and emotional health, we risk burnout and disconnection from the things that truly matter.
International Self-Care Day, observed annually on July 24th, aims to promote and normalize the practice of self-care as an essential aspect of overall well-being. It encourages individuals to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional health by engaging in activities that help them thrive at any age.
Self-care in Lethbridge can involve a variety of activities, from personal growth groups and workshops to home and community care services and even self-defense classes. Lethbridge Family Services (LFS) offers groups focused on personal growth and self-care practices
“My program offers educational presentations, workshops, trainings, groups, and individual education in a wide variety of areas….personal growth groups, individual education, suicide prevention,” says John Thompson, Outreach and Education Supervisor.
Self-care is not rocket science but must be consistent. It can be as simple as: taking a 10-minute walk outside daily; drinking enough water throughout the day; unplugging from your phone for an hour; getting a good night’s sleep; saying no to something that drains your energy; and even connecting with someone you care about or with your community.
Even though technology is inseparable from living in today’s world. Excessive use of it can be detrimental to personal wellness. While technology offers numerous benefits, its overuse can lead to a range of negative impacts on physical and mental health, as well as social and cognitive well-being.
Constant day and night use of cell phones can be detrimental to personal well-being. Excessive use is linked to various physical and mental health issues, including sleep problems, eye strain, anxiety, and depression. It can also disrupt cognitive functions, impacting memory, concentration, and learning skills.
Too much time sitting still with electronics and not moving enough are hallmarks of the sedentary lifestyle. The best way to combat the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle is by unplugging from technology, getting up and moving through regular exercise, whether at home, outdoors or at the gym. Yoga is an exercise which can be done at home or almost any location.
“Yoga is a practice you can do solo at home by yourself with a guide on a platform, whether that’s Youtube, yoga dvd’s, or any live social media platform…the list is endless,” says yoga instructor Aimee Wickersham. “Yoga is also a great practice to do in a class, or in other words, in a community setting. Practicing with each other facilitates a ‘come together’ setting and like-mindedness of looking after one’s mind, body, and soul- whatever that looks like personally for each individual.
A gym membership can be a good investment in self-care. It provides a dedicated space and resources for physical activity, which can improve both physical and mental health. Regular exercise, facilitated by a gym membership can lead to reduced stress, better sleep, and improved mood, contributing to overall well-being.
Multifunctional recreational facilities like the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LCSO), University of Lethbridge’s Centre for Sport and Wellness and the Cor Van Raay YMCA not only offer health and fitness benefits, but community and connection as well.
“The YMCA of Lethbridge supports personal wellness in its fullest sense: physical, mental, and social,” says YMCA team member Ashley Campbell. “Whether someone comes through our doors to swim laps, join a fitness class, participate in a youth program, or simply share a coffee with a friend, they’re investing in their own well-being.”
Group fitness activities and sports like yoga, basketball, volleyball, badminton and pickleball are some of the activities offered at the YMCA that promote both health, physical fitness and social connection.
“The Y is a place to belong,” says Campbell. “For many in our community, it’s where loneliness is replaced by connection, where routine builds purpose, and where health is supported in every season of life.”
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