In the ’60s and ’70s:

During the 1960s and 1970s, a profound shift towards self-care, self-governance, and social justice began to take root. As awareness grew, studies began to explore the effects of intense stressors on individuals in emotionally demanding professions like social work and trauma therapy. These early investigations into the connection between our actions and our well-being continue to influence our understanding of self-care today. Simultaneously, on a societal level, activism gained momentum as communities rallied for change, driven by a newfound awareness both locally and globally. Grassroots, community-based organizations emerged, seeking to bridge the gaps in government-run support systems, particularly for those facing low income and limited access to quality care. Moreover, smaller groups sought alternative ways of living, embracing value-based choices and stepping away from conventional norms.

These early transformations in the perception of self-care and self-expression instilled the belief that individual choices were not solely determined by economic class but were within the grasp of each person. While these changes forever altered our society, they also ushered in new methods of using self-care as a tool of measurement.

The ’80s:

In the mid-1980s, our understanding of self-care underwent further evolution, becoming intertwined with concepts like time management, productivity, and work-life balance. Whether through individual efforts or corporate-led training, we became acquainted with strategies to “do more with less.” Companies like Covey emerged, offering systematic approaches to “improving ourselves” and our productivity, both at work and home.

Interestingly, as productivity-centric ideologies gained popularity, a quieter movement surrounding wellness and lifestyle began to take shape. Practices like Meditation, Mindfulness, and Yoga, which had been present in the West for over a decade, started to gain traction among a silent minority seeking to embrace acceptance, curiosity, and a break from the constant drive for efficiency.

The ’90s:

The ’90s ushered in the catchphrase “Think Different,” encouraging individuals to craft their own lives, stand out, and be noticed. While seemingly empowering and forward-thinking, it is essential to contextualize this slogan as a marketing strategy by companies looking to align themselves with the spirit of the times—a desire for self-expression and a challenge to the status quo, subtly urging consumers to purchase their products.

During this era, the focus shifted towards the pursuit of personal luxuries and possessions, turning ownership into a new benchmark for self-care. As walkmans, iPods, and cell phones made their debuts, these gadgets became culturally significant symbols of connectedness. Paradoxically, in a world where the fundamental human need is connection, these very technologies started to question whether our newfound connections were genuinely meaningful. This dilemma expanded as the 21st century progressed, introducing new forms of social communication designed to keep us “connected” through their platforms.

Curiously, today we find ourselves measuring self-care based on our ability to disconnect from these very same technological tools. Weekly, we encounter videos and messages urging us to seek more authentic human connections and a reconnection with ourselves and nature, often juxtaposed with advertisements for the latest technological distractions.

Conclusion:

As we explore the history of self-care, we recognize that the concept has traversed various phases, shaped by societal norms and commercial interests over time. By delving into its past, we can untangle biases and external pressures that have influenced our understanding of self-care. This knowledge allows us to embrace a more inclusive and authentic practice, extending its benefits to everyone, regardless of social status or background.