By Curtis Thill, M.D.

 

Did you know that September is Self-Care Month? This month is a gentle reminder that positively taking care of oneself isn’t self-centered, it’s essential. For many of us, fall is the season when kids are back in school, when our schedules shift, and for some, a time of pumpkin-spiced everything. But while we’re busy keeping calendars in line and wardrobes ready for cooler weather, our own well-being can quietly slip further towards the bottom of the list.

As a long-time family physician, I can confirm that self-care is more than a one-off pledge to sometimes taking care of business.  It’s about steady, everyday choices that protect your body, mind, and emotional health. In fact, many healthcare professionals encourage patients to think of self-care as part of their “prescription for prevention,” an important addition to regular medical checkups and seeing your provider.

Embracing practical and sound self-care works best when it’s part of one’s healthcare journey, walking alongside a trusted provider.

Why self-care matters

I know from experience what providers see firsthand when self-care is ignored. I know that people can get busy with day-to-day life, but when one is not taking care of oneself, chronic stress, unhealthy diets, lack of sleep, and skipping routine checkups don’t just add up—they can multiply. Practicing principles of sound self-care – coupled with a working relationship with a healthcare professional – can re-focus away from crisis and more toward prevention.

Self-care helps prevent burnout, supports immune function, and even improves treatment outcomes when you see a provider. Whether it’s reminding oneself to stay hydrated or taking steps for more restful sleep, the message is clear: caring for yourself is foundational.

Fresh fruits and vegetables: the original self-care superstars

No suggestions on self-care would be complete without a nod to the power of fresh produce. Fruits and vegetables represent the unsung superheroes of the self-care universe. They offer a healthy – and tasteful – dose of critical fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—nutrients that fuel energy, lower inflammation, and help keep your heart happy.

September is also harvest season in southern Indiana. When you can, stop in a local farmers’ market – including the  traveling “Farms to Friends Farm Stand” – and scoop up some colorful and healthy options. Now is the perfect time to embrace the idea that eating fresh can be a fun – even joyful – act of self-care.

Simple ways to make self-care stick

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Starting small and building consistency works just fine. Here are some ideas:

• Snack smart – Replace the tempting vending machine candy bar with a tasty piece of fruit.
• Move more – Take a brisk walk.  Even a short 10-15 minute walk a few times a week can produce surprising results.
• Rest up – Seven-to-eight hours of good sleep rejuvenates – and try to turn off that phone screen or TV at least an hour before bed.
• Hydrate – Keep a water bottle handy. Staying hydrated counts – your body will work better when water levels are good.

The Bottom Line

Self-care month is an invitation to prioritize yourself—not in a grand, once-a-year way, but in steady, daily acts that keep you strong and healthy.

This month, why not commit to at least one new act of self-care—whether it’s an extra serving of veggies, a 15-minute walk, or finally scheduling that wellness checkup?

Prevention is much better than crisis – and your future self will thank you.

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A board-certified family physician and gardening advocate, Dr. Curtis Thill has practiced medicine in southern Indiana for more than 30 years.