Personalized Attention in Self-Care: The Key to True Wellness

“Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn

At Strathmore University we have been discussing one of our foundational values – ‘personalized attention.’ In a previous article, I discussed personalized attention in the context of service delivery in different sectors. However, my work as a Coach has inspired me to now explore this topic with an inward rather than an outward focus. What does personalized attention mean in the context of self-care, when we direct our attention inwards, to benefit our own well-being? After all, one cannot pour from an empty cup, as the popular saying goes.

Personalized attention in self-care is more than a trend—it is a mindful, compassionate approach to wellness. This self-compassion and active attention to our own needs and well-being as we navigate an increasingly stressful and complex world can help us to thrive as individuals.

Personalized attention in self-care involves recognizing and honouring your unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Tuning into your own rhythms rather than following generic routines can help you create your own reality and cultivate practices that are tailored to support you. This could include customizing your diet, exercise, relaxation methods, or even mental health practices to what suits you best. Following a personalized self-care plan that feels authentic can boost your motivation and consistency. When self-care resonates with your preferences, good habits become easier to inculcate.

How to Practice Personalized Self-Care

• Check in regularly with yourself. What do you feel you need right now? More rest, movement, social connection, or solitude? Keeping a journal to track how you feel daily can help you to process your thoughts and emotions and uncover patterns.
• Try different activities and note what works. Maybe yoga energizes you more than running, or meditation soothes your mind better than journaling. If you are feeling burned out, intense aerobic activity may further exhaust you. Also engaging in activities, you do not enjoy will deplete you. Pay attention to your energy. When something energizes you, that could be a sign that it may be good for you. Choose activities you enjoy and that fit your fitness level and lifestyle.
• Your self-care routine should adapt as your life changes. Be kind and flexible with yourself, adjusting your plan as needed. In the journey of life, we are always evolving and of course aging is a fact of life. What worked for you at twenty may not work for you at fifty.
• Tailoring your meals based on your body’s reactions, dietary restrictions, and taste preferences. Nutrition is the key to health. Your body may be deprived of certain nutrients. Take the time to understand what works for you. Keep a food diary and document how you feel after consuming particular foods.
• Using mindfulness, therapy, or creative outlets that best help you manage stress. Some people find golf particularly relaxing whilst others may prefer Thai Chi.
• Developing a nighttime routine that aligns with your natural circadian rhythms. Proper sleep hygiene and having a wind down routine before bed can help you drift off to sleep much easier. Develop one that is suited to you.

Using Personalized Attention to support your Health

While personalized healthcare is becoming more widespread, patients themselves play a crucial role in ensuring their care is truly tailored to their needs. I am currently researching ‘Shared decision-making’ in a health-care context- a personalized approach to finding the right treatment based on the patient’s individual preferences and values.  Here are some practical ways to advocate for personalized attention with your health-care providers:

• Share detailed information about your symptoms, lifestyle, mental health, family history, and any concerns you have. The more your healthcare provider knows, the better they can tailor your care.
• Do not hesitate to ask why certain tests, treatments, or medications are recommended. Discuss your preferences, values, and goals openly. For example, if you prefer natural remedies or want to avoid certain side effects, share this with your doctor.
• If you have a family history of certain conditions or experience unusual symptoms, ask about tests that could provide deeper insights, like genetic screenings or biomarker analyses.
• Use journals, apps, or wearable devices to monitor symptoms, medication effects, or lifestyle habits. Bringing this data to appointments can help your provider make more informed decisions.
• Work collaboratively with your healthcare team to develop and adjust your care plan. Shared decision-making ensures that your voice is central in choices about your health.

Everyone’s body chemistry, lifestyle, stressors, and emotional landscape are different. Personalized self-care honours these differences, ensuring the approach you take fits your specific needs, values and lifestyle. When care is tailored, you are more likely to experience tangible benefits such as better sleep, improved mood, increased energy, or reduced anxiety. It is a worthy investment.

Article by Shailja Sharma, SBS Lecturer and Leadership and Career Coach