by Jennifer Martin MSN, RN; Clinical Nurse Manager
OK ladies, as a nurse working in women’s health, I want to address this article to you (though it does apply to all the men out there, as well).
Women are notorious for taking care of everything and everyone before they remember to take care of themselves. This often causes us to run on low energy, feel extra stress, or suffer with health conditions such as anxiety and weight gain.
I’m here to remind you that research shows what we all know already — self-care is essential to living a long, healthy, happy life.
This is a friendly reminder that self-care should not be seen as self-indulgence or being selfish but instead as an important means by which to promote a healthy life both physically and mentally.
Our country has an epidemic that everyone is feeling, and it’s related to anxiety, depression and obesity being treated during many medical evaluations. Part of the answer to this issue is taking better care of ourselves.
It has been proven that self-care allows us to better cope with every day stress brought on by work, family and simply trying keep up with the pace of daily life.
So how do we implement taking care of ourselves so we always can be at our best? Think of things that allow you to take a deep breath or put a smile on your face; it can be something relaxing, calming, intellectual, spiritual or physical.
Here is a simple list of ideas you could begin implementing today:
Emotional self-care
- Weekly bubble baths
- Saying “no” to things that cause unnecessary stress
- Giving yourself permission to take a break
- Setting up a weekly coffee date with a friend
- Manicures, pedicures, massages
Physical self-care
- Prioritizing sleep
- Adopting an exercise routine you can stick with
- Choosing healthy, nourishing foods over highly processed ones
- Stepping outside to take a deep breath
Spiritual self-care
- Attending a religious service
- Spending time in nature
- Meditating
- Incorporating regular acts of kindness into your day
- Keeping a gratitude journal