Terri Ramsey Beavers It is all too easy to put other’s needs before our own and before we know it, we’re feeling tired, run-down, stressed, and unhappy. Self-care is essential to a happy life – emotionally and physically. Think about it this way – the happier you are, the more you have to share. Offering help from a positive place will always be better for you and the people you are trying to assist. Use this spring to carve out some self-care time, it is the season for new beginnings after all!
1. Work It Out
Give your body some physical TLC by incorporating more exercise into your day-to-day routine. Did you know that by walking 10,000 steps per day increases your heart health, aids weight loss, and improves your concentration! It also releases endorphins which will make you feel happier and less stressed. If you feel like working a bit harder, why not hit the gym or try a home workout? Just remember that your body will need a little love in terms of recovery – for some extra special love try an electric massager to ease away your aches and pains.
2. Home Spa Day
You don’t need an army of products to pamper yourself – a shower and some delicious smelling soap will do! Have a regular warm shower but make sure that you massage your legs, arms, and stomach firmly whilst soaping up. If you have a body brush great! If not your hands will do the job just fine. You want to stimulate the lymphatic system which helps your body get rid of any toxins that may be lurking below the surface. Once you’ve rinsed off, turn the water to cold (as freezing as you can stand) for a minute. This will cause your body to up the circulation and give you a nice rush of energy – without the caffeine!
3. Keep Hydrated
This one may seem obvious but one of the best things you can do for your body is give it water. It helps eliminate bacteria from your bladder when you pee, supports digestion, gives you energy – the list is endless! If you struggle to remember to drink there are some great water bottles out there to help you! If you really need reminding, try a water tracking app.
4. Count Sheep
We’re all guilty of getting enough sleep but counting those Zzz’s is vital to your wellbeing. Firstly, feeling sluggish, tired, and grumpy is no fun, but did you know a lack of sleep can have serious effects on your health? Heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes can all be a result of not enough sleep. Obesity is also linked to sleepless nights so if you’re watching your waistline make sure you’re getting at least 8 hours a night!
5. Gratitude Arising
Sometimes when we’re stressed or sad it’s not easy to see the good things in life. Begin a gratitude journal to note down at least one thing in your day that you are grateful for. This could be anything from seeing a cute dog on the street to reaching success at work. The idea is the more you notice what is going right for you, the less you’ll be affected by the things that go wrong. There are plenty of gorgeous journals out there with writing prompts to guide you on your way, or simply use an old notepad if you’re not looking to splash any cash.
6. Ban Blue-Light
Most of us are glued to a screen for much of the day due to work commitments. This can be terrible for your eyes as it increases straining. Try to spend your lunch break away from your desk and resist looking at your phone screen during this time. If you don’t have time to get away, try some blue light glasses to help filter out the light.
7. Take A Deep Breath
Studies have shown us the importance of taking time to just breathe and calm ourselves. Try the 3-4-5 method for a simple way to relax and let go of stress. Just breath in for 3 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, and then exhale for 5 seconds. At first, this may feel strange but try repeating the exercise 10-20 times and then build up once you’re feeling comfortable. You’ll be feeling calmer in no time!
8. Invest In The Things You Love
If curling up with a good book is your idea of heaven, make time for it! Podcasts more your thing? Play one on your commute to work to start your day right. Giving time to the things we enjoy makes us much happier, whether that’s playing with the grandkids or pottering in the garden.
Will you be trying any of these self-care tips? Comment below with your favorites!