No one can take better care of you than you. By making your health and well-being a top priority, there’s a very good chance your quality of life will increase dramatically. With that said, here are the most effective self-care practices to try:
Get a hobby.
Playing an instrument, solving crossword puzzles, and exercise are just a few hobbies that can relieve stress, keep the mind sharp and provide an escape from reality.
Start cooking.
Many of the fast foods and ready-made meals we consume are high in sugar, fat and artificial preservatives. Eating too much of these foods can be hazardous to your health. Instead of eating fast food, cook at home. The meals will be healthier and cheaper.
We highly recommend adding our KSM66 Ashwagandha product to meals to help battle anxiety and depression, as well as give you an antioxidant boost.
Take a walk outside.
It is estimated that over a billion people worldwide are vitamin D deficient. Fatigue, depression, brittle bones and frequent colds are just a few symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. Walking outdoors for 15 minutes per day is a great way to get this vital nutrient, as well as decrease stress levels.
Decrease exposure to negative people.
A person who is always complaining or has a negative disposition can be emotionally draining. Limiting the time spent with these types can do wonders for your mental health.
Turn off the news.
The majority of the leading news stories are negative. Bad news oftentimes gets the most attention, but it can also be toxic. In this case, less is definitely better.
Take a break from social media.
Studies on social media have linked it to increased levels of anxiety, envy, depression and loneliness. Researchers also note decreased social skills as well. Log off and connect with yourself (and the world around you).
Get adequate rest.
Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to weight gain, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, depression and decreased sex drive. How many people are taking medication for something that could be caused by lack of sleep? Taking a nap is another option: a 20-30 minute cat nap is a great way to refresh and rejuvenate the body.
Learn to say “no.”
Trying to be everything and do everything can be taxing both mentally and physically. It can also rob you of your precious “me-time.” Saying no from time to time helps you regain control of your life, as well as earn the respect of those around you: say no a couple times and people will realize they can’t walk over you or take your kindness for granted.
Clear your schedule.
In addition to saying no to others, give yourself time to relax. Always being on the go can prevent you from living in the moment and having a little time to yourself.
Invest in a few houseplants.
According to the EPA, indoor air quality can be up to 5 times worse than outdoor air. This is especially concerning in office buildings, where windows are sealed and can’t be opened. Pesticides, carpets, and cleaning supplies all contain toxic chemicals. One way to improve indoor air quality is by investing in house plants. Formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene and carbon monoxide are just a few of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that plants remove from the air.
Stand up and stretch.
As a society, we sit too much. All the sitting on our couch, at the office or in our vehicles during rush hour traffic is hazardous to our health. Too much sitting increases the risk of muscle imbalances, poor circulation, high blood pressure, strokes, weight gain and a host of other health issues. Walking and stretching are great ways to decrease the risk of having these ailments, as well as help keep the body loose and flexible.
Repeat positive affirmations.
Repeat positive affirmations every morning:
- “Today will be a great day!”
- “I am successful!”
- “I can do anything!”
This is a great way to prepare yourself mentally for the day’s challenges.
Remind yourself what you’re thankful for.
It’s easy to focus on what we don’t have, but it’s also good to pause and give thanks for what you do have: health, a roof over your head, a job, etc. Every day, remind yourself of what you have and give thanks for it.
Set goals.
Embark on an exciting new project or adventure. Setting goals will give you something to look forward to, and accomplishing them is a great way to boost self-esteem.
Laugh.
Laughter is good for the soul. Laughter releases serotonin, the feel good chemical. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and ease pain.
This is just a small sample of the many ways to practice self-care. Find several types that appeal to you and perform them daily. Your body will thank you.
