Filling Your Cup – Self-Care – Indigenous Health Leadership Network

Importance of Self-Care

Self-care is one of the most important things you can practice as a Health Director. It builds capacity, helps prevent burnout, and supports you to lead with clarity.

You are human and doing your best. No one expects perfection. This section includes reflections and resources shared by fellow Health Directors to help you fill your own cup first — so you can support others.

Examples of Wellness Activities

Mental Wellness

Alone time
Journalling
Managing your calendar
Leaving your laptop at work
Time/task management

Emotional Wellness

Art therapy
Family gatherings
Laughter yoga
Meditation
Talking with an Elder

Spiritual Wellness

Being on the land
Cedar brushing
Ceremony
Dancing and drumming
Water connection

Physical Wellness

Camping
Massage, reiki
Pilates
Yoga or walking
Proper ergonomic equipment

Reflection

What are your three favourite ways to care for yourself?

__________________________
__________________________
__________________________

Building a Support System

Health Directors often describe the role as lonely — many situations are confidential, and maintaining boundaries with direct reports is essential.

Here are some support options you might consider:

Other Health Directors (current or retired)
Elders or Knowledge Keepers
Mentors or executive coaches
FNHDA supports (Mentor City, Wellness Webinars)

Who are three people you can turn to for advice or support?

__________________________
__________________________
__________________________

Create Your Self-Care Plan

A self-care plan supports intentional wellness across mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical domains.

SMART Goals:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound

Sample SMART goals:

I will meditate for 5 minutes daily for the next 3 months.
I will read one book outside of work this quarter.
I will attend one cultural event per month.

📥 Download the Self-Care Plan template (replace with actual file link)