In today’s society, the words “self-care” are grossly overused, but how often do you really take time to take care of yourself? Between school starting back, work, and the complexities of everyday life, our personal well-being often takes a backseat. Sure, every day should be wellness day, but in our busy lives, we often forget to take time for self-care. When is the last time you took a “wellness day”?
In honor of National Wellness Month, here are some simple ways to make a happier, healthier you.
Get Some Sleep (and Maybe a Better Bed)!
It’s well known that we need to adjust our children’s sleep schedules for Back-To-School bedtimes. As adults, many of us forget how much we can also benefit from resetting our sleep cycle. Has binge-watching Game of Thrones this summer messed up your sleep schedule? Maybe you’re just not tired because you drink too much coffee! Back off the caffeine, step away from the screens, and head to bed a little earlier!
As adults, we spend most of our time at home in our beds asleep (or at least trying to sleep!). Today would be a great day to review your mattress, pillows, and your general sleep environment. Researchers suggest that you replace your mattress at least every 8 years. Removing your cell phone from your bedroom is also another way to improve your quality of sleep. Make sure everything is working towards the goal of better sleep!
Take Nutrition Seriously
Your diet is key. We all know this, but it’s one of the hardest things to incorporate into your lifestyle. Eating healthy is hard and expensive. When a salad is $9, but you can get a double cheeseburger, fries, and a drink for $4.50, it makes the decision to be healthy even more difficult. Every day is a great day to start fresh!
- Let today be the day to order a salad for lunch instead of a sandwich and chips.
- Make an effort to increase your water consumption.
- Check out your local farmers market for seasonal produce.
- Get back to tracking your food choices (my personal plan for this week!)
- Set some goals! Setting a deadline can boost your motivation, so choose a date in the next month or two to achieve healthier outcomes or weight loss, and map a plan each week to achieve those goals!
Appointments and Wellness Screenings
We’re over halfway through 2019 (that’s crazy, right?!). Grab your calendar and schedule any remaining required screenings or appointments for the year, such as:
- your annual physical;
- suggested preventive health screenings, appropriate for your age;
- your annual flu shot;
- an annual eye doctor appointment, especially for students and teachers heading back to school;
- Your semi-annual dentist appointment;
- visits to the chiropractor, podiatrist, etc.
Exercise
Make exercise fun, not a chore. What activities do you like? How can you weave them into your schedule as exercise?
Our morning walk today was pleasant, with the cooler morning temperatures. I enjoy seeing my community’s lush yards and beautiful flowers. Do you enjoy reading? Download an audio book, and go for a run.
Did you know that you can now rent bicycles all over Calhoun County? Jacksonville, Choccolocco Park, and Ladiga Trail all have bikes available to rent to anyone who is willing to download an app. Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to be out and about in Alabama.
Get up, get out, get moving!
Self Care
I am often negligent when it comes to self care, but I am working on it! It has been a stressful summer for me, and I have come to realize that self care can’t be optional! Yesterday, I had a massage along with my chiropractic adjustment, and made sure to schedule my next appointments for both before I left the office.
Do you struggle with stress, particularly those nasty headaches and tension knots that come along with it? Meditation can be a great tool to alleviate that stress and tension. YouTube has some amazing video tutorials on the subject of mediation and self-massage.
One of the best ways to practice self-care is to preemptively take care of your mind and body instead of trying to constantly repair. Set boundaries for yourself, and respect them. Learn to say no sometimes, and take care of yourself first.
Other components for self care for me have been respecting my boundaries (and occasionally saying No), fueling my body with healthy foods and relaxing with reading. That may not seem like a lot, but for me, it’s progress!
What could you do this week, to treat yourself kindly?
For National Wellness month, set goals and take action, or at least get back on a healthier track after some summer shenanigans (or is that just me?)!
- Protect yourself from injury by wearing helmets and other activity-appropriate gear.
- Protect your skin-wear sunscreen!
- Make an appointment with a medical professional for a check-up, vaccination, or screening.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent the spread of infection and illness.
- Make healthy food choices.
- Prepare healthy snacks in advance to have in your car or at your desk.
- Get moving
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Stand up at least once an hour if you typically sit at a desk/computer all day.
- Be active for at least 2½ hours a week.
- Tobacco-free is the way to be.
- Sleep is a necessity, not a luxury. Make sure you’re getting enough rest.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Gather your/your family’s health history, and keep it on hand for easy reference.
- Drink more water.
- Smile and laugh as much as possible.
National wellness month is a 31-day healthy living celebration. Join Southern Immediate Care in celebrating national wellness month.
Coming August 2019! Exclusive product & experience offers at 30-50 % off #wellnessmonth
