We at MHC recognize that self-care looks different for everyone. However, one thing is universal; the more tools you have in your toolkit, the better prepared you will be to access those tools as a means of prevention and intervention before reaching the point of distress. We also recognize the importance of self-care in bolstering our resilience and coping mechanisms. That’s why this year, we are leveraging our expertise and focusing our efforts on curated information from our staff, participants, and community partners. Today, we’re focusing on hobbies as a vital tool for self-care. 

“Self-care doesn’t look one way, so the way you engage in self-care should be tailored to you and what you need. My self-care practice is based on how it makes me feel and no matter what, I choose to engage in its daily. I also give myself grace when it looks different than I planned. As a retired people-pleaser, I’ve learned the importance of pouring into myself daily, which includes waking up in the morning and telling myself I love you and saying my daily mantra.” – Ashley, YIOC teacher 

From Katie Cyr, MHC’s Training Department Assistant: 

Crafting is my ultimate form of self-care—a refuge where I can escape the chaos of the world and nourish my soul through creative expression. 

Crafting can be a sanctuary for self-care, offering a haven where you can immerse yourself in creativity and expression. Whether it’s knitting, painting, or sculpting, the act of crafting provides a therapeutic outlet to channel emotions and unwind from the stresses of daily life.  

Engaging in a creative process allows you to enter a state of flow, where worries dissipate, and you become fully absorbed in the present moment. This focused attention can be incredibly calming, serving as a form of meditation that promotes mindfulness and relaxation. 

Moreover, crafting offers a tangible means of self-expression and personal fulfillment. As you bring your ideas to life through your chosen medium, you experience a sense of achievement and pride in your creations. This sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem and nurtures a positive self-image.  

Additionally, the act of crafting fosters a sense of connection—to yourself, as you explore your inner creativity, and to others, as you share your creations with friends, family, or the wider community. In this way, crafting becomes not just a hobby, but a powerful tool for self-care that nourishes the soul and enriches the spirit.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month 2024, we are thrilled to collaborate with Yoga in Our City to prioritize self-care. Join us every Sunday throughout May for #SelfCareSunday! 

YIOC began in 2012 in Hartford, Connecticut as a program of Civic Mind, a social enterprise specializing in community development. 

As its popularity grew, YIOC offered more classes in more places. New people and organizations began to support and shape our work, our goals, and our impact. Since then, YIOC has evolved from a humble weekly class to a statewide collaboration of mission-driven partners and supporters. MHC is a proud partner of YIOC.  

@yogainourcity launched their 2024 schedule for free Yoga In the Parks! Check it out here: https://yogainourcity.com/schedule/ 

Check out Katie’s crafts on her Business Facebook page!

This year, MHC invited Connecticut residents to demonstrate their self-love through our #LetsFaceIt campaign. A donation to the #LetsFaceIt campaign is an investment in the safe and welcoming environments for those we serve and it’s an investment in our future.   

Join us by setting up a fundraising page or making a donation today! 

Stay in touch with us on social media @mentalhealthct and keep up with our blog posts so you don’t miss a #SelfCareSunday in May! 

Enrich your self-care at the free Light It Up With Color event on May 30th.