The third Saturday of July is dedicated to International Self-Compassion Day. This year, that’s 19 July, and a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and treat yourself with the same kindness you offer others. In a world that moves fast, where burnout is all too common and rest feels self-indulgent, this day reminds us to pause and prioritise our own wellbeing.

At City Lodge Hotels, we believe taking regular breaks is essential. Whether you choose the luxury of a Courtyard Hotel, a classic City Lodge Hotel, modern comfort at a Town Lodge, or the convenient affordability of a Road Lodge, each of our 58 hotels across Southern Africa offers a welcoming space to reset and recharge.

“Self-compassion involves treating yourself the way you would treat a friend who is having a hard time,” points out Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneer in self-compassion research. 

Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale psychology professor and host of The Happiness Lab, adds: “Rest is not a waste of time. It’s how we recover and come back stronger.”

Dr Santos also suggests we:

• Prioritise sleep and downtime: Sleep and short rests boost emotional resilience.
• Do small things that bring joy: A walk, a warm drink, music; tiny pleasures count.
• Say no to over-scheduling: Protect our time and energy.
• Schedule “worry time”: Contain stress by giving it boundaries.
• Celebrate progress, not perfection: Acknowledge effort, even when outcomes aren’t perfect.

Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo, Chief Operational Officer at City Lodge Hotels, says, “At this time of the year, most of us need a break to give us the energy to thrive during the second half of the year, and caring for yourself doesn’t need to break the bank. If an overnight stay isn’t in your budget right now, pop in to one of our hotels for a delicious buffet breakfast, hearty lunch, or delicious dinner at one of our hotel restaurants. It’s the perfect way to carve out a little calm in your day, with great food and a peaceful setting.”

This International Self-Compassion Day, be kind to yourself, and take a moment to reconnect with your family, friends, or yourself. Enjoy that meal. Order the slice of cake. Rest, reflect, and set intentions for the rest of year in a space designed with your comfort and ease in mind. Go to www.citylodgehotels.com to find a hotel near where you want to be. As we say, Life is hard. Check into easy.