Taking Care of Ones Self-Making Your Life the Best it Can Be
Taking care of ones self is one of the hardest things we can do.
I know I always take care of others first and if there is any time left I may do something for myself.
There is no reason we cannot put us first or at least include ourselves on the list.
Follow these lifestyle tips to help preserve your health; physically and mentally.
Tips on Taking Care of Yourself
- Physical Care: Follow a well-balanced diet that meets your body's nutrition and energy needs. Limit your intake of salt and sugar; caffeine; oils and fats-especially saturated fat; red meats, especially higher fat cuts and processed varieties; and refined foods such as instant noodles, white bread and soft drinks. Divide your meals into three main meals and two to three snacks.
- Get at Least Seven to Eight Hours of Sleep Each Night: Develop health sleeping habits. Refrain from drinking/eating caffeine products late in the afternoon/evening. Have a nightly routine that helps you prepare for bed. If you are having trouble sleeping, consult with your doctor they can help.
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Get Regular Medical Check-ups: It is important to have regular medical check-ups, because if you have other health problems they can contribute to your depression and anxiety. If you do not feel well in your body you will not feel well in your mind. Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Physical Activity: Increase your level of physical activity aiming for 30-60 minutes of moderate activity most, if not every day of the week. Most exercises that people seem to enjoy include brisk walking, bicycling, swimming and low-impact aerobics; consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Choose an activity that you think you would like and work it into your daily routine. Start slowly and work your way up.
- Mental Self-Care: It is very important to keep a positive attitude about life and associate with people who have a similar outlook. We have a draw to people who are feeling the same things we are feeling, but that is not always healthy. You want to develop a positive circle of friends, so you will not dwell on your depression or anxiety issues.
- Develop a Healthy Sense of Humor: Learn to laugh at your quirks and mistakes. Do something you enjoy every day! Find humor in all things!
- Exercise Your Mind: Do word puzzles, play cards or board games, read, research subjects on internet, learn new skills go back to school! If you keep your mind active it will not have time to be busy with depression, anxiety or repressed memories.
- Social Well-Being: Be sure to stay in touch with family and friends. They can be a great source of support. If you have a limited number in your social network take a class or do volunteer work. Not only will you meet new people, but it will get you out of the house and you will be doing something that will be good for you.
- Financial Welfare: Try to limit financial stress by setting long-term goals, develop and stick to a budget that will help you reach those goals. Also, try to set aside extra money for unexpected expenses that may come up.
Take Care Now
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These are just a few suggestions to take care of yourself.
You may have some of your own that you could add to the list.
It may be overwhelming to look at this list and decide to incorporate into your life, but pick one and work your way to them all.
Also, I suggest reading the 15 Coping Skills for Stress listed on this site. Not only are they good suggestions for coping with stress, but they are also helpful in taking care of yourself.
Remember it is important to take care of yourself you deserve it!