How Basic Self-Care Can Refresh and Rejuvenate Your Mind and Spirit
It's always a pleasure speaking with like-minded wellness professionals. Brad Krause Brad Krause graduated from college in 2010 and went straight to the corporate world at the headquarters of a popular retail company. But what started as a dream job soured quickly. After four years of working 15-hour days and neglecting his health, he decided enough was enough. Through aiding a friend during a tough time, Brad discovered his real calling-helping people implement self-care practices that improve their overall wellbeing. He created www.selfcaring.info to share his own knowledge and the many great resources he finds on his self-care journey.
I wanted to share his article below which reminds us about basic, yet commonly overlooked self-care practices. When implemented, they can make a profound impact on your life (and can ultimately help you to help others).
It seems like everyone today is a little tired and just a bit run down. Between balancing work with a social life and family, it can seem impossible to have enough time for ourselves to unwind and relax. However, a few simple changes can lead to a giant shift in how we feel each day.
Enjoy a New and Relaxing Hobby
Find things that can relax you, such as picking up a new hobby. Hobbies can help you de-stress after a trying day. You could start a collection of some kind, such as coins or stamps, or invest in adult coloring books.
Another good way to relax is through meditation and yoga. Both can allow you to focus on the present moment and to let go of worries about the future and past. Instead of thinking about worries, you focus on breathing or holding a position. By committing every day to letting go of stress and actively relaxing, you will start to become more clear-minded and grounded.
Eat Well to Improve Happiness
A poor diet can lead to a poor emotional state. It's easy when we're tired or overworked to simply eat what is quick and easy, which usually entails fast or pre-made food from the store. Even when we are tired, we should include more fresh foods. Studies from Australia suggest that you can see an immediate boost in mood simply by eating fresh fruits and vegetables more frequently. You'll see health benefits, too, but the emotional advantages cannot be overstated. So, instead of reaching for a processed snack, prepare some fresh vegetables and fruits to have on hand, ready to eat for ease of access. And if you’re having difficulties getting to the grocery store, subscribe to a meal delivery service, which offers convenience and many low-calorie options to help you lose and maintain your weight.
Reduce Your Stress and Relax
Every single day, it's important to find ways to disengage and relax. Going and going without a break can be difficult for our bodies and minds. If you have no time, you may feel more pressed. That's why we need to master the art of saying no. If you don't have time to work extra, or you need a break, then say so, regardless of how uncomfortable that may be at first. What you do to unwind is largely up to you, as everyone finds different things relaxing. Whatever it is, make sure you do it, if not daily, then weekly. By doing something you enjoy, you may be able to boost your energy levels, and your spirit, too.
For something that is extra calming, you could try the new and popular trend of floating. Floating allows the body to unwind completely, all while in a controlled and soothing environment. Your entire body is buoyed in soothing water, and the effect is remarkably healing.
Get Better Sleep to Feel Better
Sustained lack of sleep leads to more than simple tiredness and exhaustion during the day. Unfortunately, it may cause conditions like depression or even a lack of self-esteem. You may notice your emotions fluctuate and are unstable on days when you haven't slept enough. To maintain wellness, and to keep stresses down, it's important to do what you can to cultivate good sleep hygiene. That means making sure your room is at a comfortable temperature to help you relax, and also that it is dark enough. Go to bed at the same time each night, and wake up at the same hour regardless of how well you slept or when you need to be awake. Establishing routine can help you sleep better overall.
Investing in yourself is not selfish. In fact, to better help all those around you, you should take good care of your own well-being. Adhere to these daily rituals, and make sure that you find ways, such as floating, to best unwind. After all, life is too short to go through it tired, stressed and run down. Instead, do what you can to feel good and healthy.