Self care is a very broad term and can mean anything from an evening of pampering, to taking control of one's mental health. However, self care is not only about your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. It is about caring for yourself by eating healthily, getting quality sleep, caring about your hygiene and exercising regularly.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines self-care as:
The ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider.
Self care doesn't mean going it alone, but working with your healthcare professional, family members, carers or friends, to understand how you could contribute to your own treatment and take the small steps to improve your leg health.
If you have a leg ulcer or lower limb condition self care can mean:
washing your legs and feet daily with unscented PH balanced soap,
regularly moisturising your skin with unscented products before bed,
checking your legs and skin for any changes such as breaks, cracks or swelling,
wearing self care compression products, such as wrap systems, socks or tights*.
Embracing self care can have a number of benefits, not only for you and your family but also for your healthcare professional, such as:
reducing regular nurse and doctor appointments,
helping to reduce pressures on health organisations,
releasing time for you, your friends and family to squeeze in the things you love.
For more information on self care and caring for your legs visit Club Squeeze In.
*If you currently wear compression garments speak to your GP, healthcare professional or pharmacist for more information on self care product solutions.
