Another crazy year has almost come to a close, thank goodness. Just like last year, 2021 was another stressful one for the record books. Between the Delta variant, inflationary pressures, and global inventory shortages, it seems that normalcy continues to be out of everyone’s reach.
Although we can’t control most of what is happening in the world around us, we can take time to focus on our mental health and wellness. It’s time to shut off our televisions, computers and phones, and get back to healthy habits and moments of self-care.
Controlling Stress
There are various things we can easily do to help control stress such as breathing techniques, meditation, exercise, reading, or journaling. You can even see a therapist online in the privacy of your home through telehealth services.
Self-Care
Taking time to enjoy mini moments of self-care can do wonders for your health and mental clarity. Soaking in a warm tub, enjoying an aromatic steamy shower, or performing a home pedicure, can help you re-center and refocus your thoughts and divert your attention away from the negative.
Modify Your Surroundings
Perhaps it’s been a while since you went on a vacation, so you may be feeling cooped up with wanderlust. Until you can get out and explore again, try a few small tricks around your home to help relax your mind and make things look or feel different. For example, aromatherapy is a simple, convenient, and non-invasive way to change your mood. Natural oils derived from plants such as lavender, lemongrass, and patchouli have been used for thousands of years to help reduce stress and tension. You may also try rearranging your room or adding houseplants.
Massage
Some may consider massage an indulgence; However, there are many health benefits to this age-old practice. Massage is an important part of integrative medicine and benefits can include stress reduction, reduced muscle soreness, improved circulation, immune function improvement and increased feelings of relaxation.
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Self-Care
If the idea of self-care is foreign to you, here are a few pointers.
First, forget the guilt. Self-care is not indulgent – it’s imperative. It gives people the chance to rest and recharge so that they can be more productive and present.
Second, know that self-care is different for everyone. Whether it’s a walk on the beach, a tough workout, or a 20-minute face mask, self-care can be experienced in many ways.
Third, self-care is something you need to schedule. Block out “me time” on your calendar. If you wait until a spare moment rolls around, it will never happen.
Fourth, put away the Facebook feed, turn off the television, and remove the distractions. Remember, self-care is about focusing on you and nothing else.
If there was ever a time to refocus your energy towards self-care, this is it! “Me time” will nourish your body and mind and the health benefits can be profound.