It's hard to pinpoint a specific time in recent history when self-care became the mainstream byword that it is today. But if you do base it on Google trends, there's a noticeable spike in 2016. That means many people were typing "self-care" sometime after the US elections.

The same Google trends, in a worldwide scope, show that last month, September 2020 was the peak search volume of the word. As of writing, the hashtag #SelfCare has over 35.5 million posts.

There's no more denying it, self-care is part of our collective consciousness as people. Different groups of varying interest attach their own meanings to the word. Whatever and however it is defined, the most important point is this: self-care is essential.

In the BWG Lifestyle blog, we wrote, "What is Self-Care and Why Is it Important?" We listed down some of the benefits of practising self-care:

"Better Productivity. Imagine if you had the strength to say "no" to things that over-extend you. When you put self-care as an important activity in your life, your perspective changes. You begin to put top priority on things that truly matter more, this puts your goals into focus. You begin to concentrate on what you are doing.

"Improved Immunity to illness. When you practice self-care, your body goes into a rested mode. It starts rejuvenating itself, therefore, strengthening the immune system. This means you will have lesser colds, flu or upset stomachs. When you're less stressed your body is stronger and more physically able to protect itself.

"Better self-esteem. Your subconscious will take note of the time and effort you've put in for yourself. You are giving a positive message that adds value to who you are. Gradually, your inner voice will change it's tone, from being negative to positive.

"Knowing yourself better. In choosing how to practice self-care, you need to constantly ask questions about yourself and what you really love. It is a quest into who you truly are and what inspires you."

That's just a few of the benefits you reap when you make self-care a lifestyle. But so many fail to understand this part. It should be a lifestyle, not a one time, big-time experience.

Sure, we all love a weekend spa retreat or a getaway trip to somewhere with no stress and smog. But not everyone has the time or the capacity to do that frequently.

Self-care is and should be a daily act. It is a change in the way you live your life. It means being intentionally grateful every day. It is actively affirming yourself, forgiving yourself, and loving yourself every single day.

And here in BWG Botanics, it also means loving our body a little extra every day. That means that your skin, your hair, your face, and all the things happening inside of you deserve sustainable, luxurious, potent, and truly effective products. Self-care starts here.