Practicing self-care is a priority for emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Even the smallest act of self-care can contribute to overall prosperity.
Here are a few benefits of self-care that can be enjoyed by making simple adjustments to your lifestyle:
● Improved mood and positive outlook
● Better sleeping patterns
● Healthy immunity and less chance of falling ill
● Decreased chance of struggling with mental health challenges (such as stress, depression, and anxiety)
● Strengthening of relationships
Studies suggest that physical health has a critical impact on mental health and improving overall wellbeing. There are easy and practical ways to look after your physical health, including exercising regularly and eating healthy food. The Mayo Clinic recommends that adults partake in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity weekly, and strength training twice weekly (imm follows similar guidelines established by the ACSM).
Eating balanced and nutritious meals is equally important in prioritizing health. Following a healthy diet boosts the mood, improves self-esteem, and strengthens immunity.
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● Make time for activities that reduce stress, such as meditation and deep breathing
● Plan for your favorite hobbies, such as reading a book or cooking
● Strive to sleep a minimum of seven hours each night
● Learn to say “no” when needed
● Explore natural remedies, such as herbal tea and burning sage
● Assess your finances and streamline your budget
A recent survey reveals that 73% of Americans rank finances as their main cause of stress. Considering that stress can severely impact mental health, it’s important to incorporate financial planning into your self-care routine.
Keep a Financial Journal
Make an effort to track and review your monthly expenses. Understanding how you spend your money gives you the knowledge of where you can cut back and reduce costs. Perhaps you’re eating out more than necessary? Maybe you struggle with impulse buying? Planning ahead and sticking to a budget become a lot easier when you have an understanding of your spending habits.
Open a Savings Account
Savings accounts are beneficial for several reasons. They serve as a rainy day fund when times are tough, as a reserve for an expensive item, or to put money down for a larger investment.
Financial security can have a monumental impact on overall mental health. When setting up your self-care routine, make sure that you consider healthy financial habits.
-Jason Lewis
strongwell.org
Jason Lewis is a certified personal trainer with a BA in Human Performance/Exercise Health Sciences. You can find Jason’s valuable fitness content, and his mission at www.strongwell.org. There you will find information that touches on all age groups, including the aging process and ways to manage fitness and health from various categories.