Self-care is a way of living that incorporates behaviors that help you to be refreshed, replenish your personal motivation, and grow as a person. Some people may think self-care or nurturing is just for the fragile; the weak-willed or wimps. Actually it is a vital part of maintaining good health and a vibrant life. Nurturing yourself is a necessity, not a luxury.
- Set aside relaxation time. Include rest and relaxation in your daily schedule. Don’t allow other obligations to encroach. This is your time to take a break from all responsibilities and recharge your batteries.d recharge
- Connect with others. Spend time with positive people who enhance your life. A strong support system will buffer you from the negative effects of stress.
- Do something you enjoy every day. Make time for leisure activities that bring you joy, whether it be stargazing, playing the piano, or working on your bike.
- Keep your sense of humor. This includes the ability to laugh at yourself. The act of laughing helps your body fight stress in a number of ways.
- Process your emotions. It is healthy to listen to your feelings, process them, and try to understand them. A great way to process emotions is the act of journaling.
- Maintain a spiritual practice. Research shows that a lifestyle including religion or spirituality is generally a healthier lifestyle. Prayer or meditation are examples of ways to enhance your spiritual side. Spiritual practice is deeply personal and whatever you practice it should nurture your soul.
Healthy Stress Reducers
- Go for a walk.
- Spend time in nature.
- Talk to a supportive friend.
- Sweat out tension with a good workout.
- Do something for someone else.
- Write in your journal.
- Take a long bath.
- Play with a pet.
- Work in your garden.
- Get a massage.
- Curl up with a good book.
- Take a yoga class.
- Listen to music.
- Watch a comedy.
Adopt A Healthy Lifestyle
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity plays a key role in reducing and preventing the effects of stress. Make time for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week. Nothing beats aerobic exercise for releasing pent-up stress and tension.
- Eat a healthy diet. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat. Start your day right with breakfast, and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day.
- Reduce caffeine and sugar. The temporary "highs" caffeine and sugar provide often end in with a crash in mood and energy. By reducing the amount of coffee, soft drinks, chocolate, and sugar snacks in your diet, you’ll feel more relaxed and you’ll sleep better.
- Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs may provide an easy escape from stress, but the relief is only temporary. Don’t avoid or mask the issue at hand; deal with problems head on and with a clear mind.
- Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep fuels your mind, as well as your body. Feeling tired will increase your stress because it may cause you to think irrationally.
Sources:
Stress Management
How to Reduce, Prevent, and Cope With Stress
