If anything these past two years have taught us, it’s how quickly life can change completely from everything that we once took for granted, to learning to take care of ourselves and to prioritize what really matters. As we head into 2022 (how is that possible?!?), we are definitely getting back into the “busyness” of our lives again and maybe losing that perspective of taking care of ourselves. Self care is something we should always continue to make a priority in life… it’s not selfish… it’s essential to our health and well being. Think of what the flight attendants tell us at the start of a flight… put your oxygen mask on first before helping anyone you are traveling with… this should be the same directions you give to yourself in your daily life… take care of yourself so you can better take care of others in your life.
How do we do this? For many of us it seems like a selfish or foreign concept as we are always used to doing for others instead of for ourselves (moms are particularly guilty of this, though I know there are some great guys out there who are awesome caregivers). However, self care needs to be an intentional pursuit of taking care of the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your life so you can deal with all that life can throw at us. How to practice self care is different for all of us, and you can do whatever brings you the health, happiness, and well being you need, and keep in mind, even that may vary from day to day.
If we truly want to be healthy and feel our best, it’s always a good idea to start with a healthy foundation. That starts with eating a healthy, balanced diet including all food groups, remembering to drink enough water, sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, and making physical activity a daily priority. Ask yourself if there are any of these areas you need to improve and make that a goal to work on that area. Your health is your wealth!
Then take the time to relax and help reduce some of the stress in your life. Once again this is not selfish, but vital to your overall well being, and it will help you better handle the challenges life throws at us. Relaxing activities might include reading a good book, taking a long walk in an area of nature you enjoy (for me it’s the beach), getting a massage, taking a relaxing bath, using the new sauna here at the gym, watching a movie, doing puzzles…..the list is endless. Pick something you enjoy and make it a priority especially when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Lastly, remember to nurture the social relationships in your life. While “alone time” is vital and a great way to rest and recharge, we are by nature social creatures so be sure to take time to spend with friends and family ( just be sure it’s the ones who bring you joy, not angst). Remember how isolated we all felt when we were first in “lockdown “? Now that we can socialize again (safely), take the time to actually talk in person or plan a fun activity to do together. If you really enjoy being social, join a class that interests you so you can make even more connections. People need people, especially ones who bring us joy and positivity.
However you choose to practice self care is completely up to you, but make it a priority in 2022 and you may just find it might be your best year yet!
If you want to work on self care, or any other of your health and wellness goals, book a Free Nutrition Intro session with any of our great nutrition coaches, and let us help you on your journey and see amazing results!
