Every year, as autumn arrives, I feel a desire to refocus on activities that make me feel good. It’s the perfect time to curl up and watch a comforting TV series with a hot drink in hand, or to do some colouring or puzzles with a jazz playlist in the background. For me, these activities are synonymous with self-care; they allow me to recharge my batteries after a summer packed with social outings.
It’s not widely known, but September is Self-Care Awareness Month—a theme that is particularly close to my heart. I recently learned that the weekend of September 18–20—marking the 10th edition of World Wellness Weekend—is a highlight of the month. I love it! In this article, I invite you to explore different facets of self-care and tell you about a wellness-themed activity at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel!
The Importance of Self-Care and Prioritizing Well-Being
Our lives are stressful: between demanding jobs, mounting family and social responsibilities, and an abundance of bad news from around the world, our bodies and minds are often overtaxed. Our mental load is heavy, and our schedules are packed to the brim. In this context, it is important to take time for ourselves—practicing self-care either alone or with friends—to ensure we don’t lose sight of ourselves amidst the hectic pace of daily life.
Prioritizing well-being helps reduce the risk of burnout by lowering stress levels and improving overall health. Indeed, engaging in self-care activities can enhance sleep quality, immunity, and mental balance—and even strengthen social bonds when done in a group.
What is well-being, and how can you practice self-care?
Prioritizing well-being and engaging in self-care activities is something everyone should place at the top of their to-do list. While everyone defines these concepts differently, here are the key components of well-being:
- physical: sleep, nutrition, movement
- social and environmental: creativity, community
- mental and emotional: stress management, spirituality, and mindfulness
Let these categories inspire you to find daily self-care activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good—such as turning off your phone in the evening to read a book, taking a yoga class at the community center, joining a painting session with friends, or sleeping in on Saturdays. My personal favourite self-care activities? Cooking a comforting meal, applying a face mask while reading a novel, taking a HIIT class, and birdwatching from the balcony with my cat (it’s his favourite activity, too!).
Wellness Day – Move for Wishes at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel
On Saturday, September 26, a day dedicated to renewal is being held at Espace 21 within the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel in Montreal. What a wonderful way to prioritize your well-being while practicing self-care in a group setting!
This immersive event features three workshops designed to invest in your mental and physical health, all while helping to make the dreams of children who need it most come true. In fact, 100% of ticket sales proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish International Foundation.
The experience combines various complementary practices—including conscious breathing, movement and yoga, guided meditation, and sound healing—all led by Amarys, co-founder and lead practitioner at Leshift. The day aims to invite us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and rediscover a deep state of calm and vitality.
Grab a ticket for the event and—if you’re so inclined—make a donation to the foundation!
So, shall we put self-care on the agenda this September (and all year round)?
