We live in a world where we are constantly on the go. Working, volunteering, taking care of our family, keeping up a home all while putting on a nice smile, and making it look effortless. Let’s face it, it’s exhausting trying to keep up with the pace. Maybe that exhaustion is finally catching up with you, and your body and mind are craving a little self-care.
Taking care of you shouldn’t be a luxury. You deserve to prioritize your health and well-being. The trouble is, after constantly focusing on everything else, sometimes it‘s hard to know how to start. Here are just a few tips for taking better care of your physical and mental health.
Physical Health
Even if you’re struggling with mental and soul issues like motivation and passion, getting a handle on your physical health can perk up more than just your body. Trust us, there are palpable, direct links between physical health and mental health.
1. Eat right
Food is fuel, and you want to fill your tank with the best of the best. On your journey to a better you, consider making healthier choices in your diet. You don’t have to cut out everything you love right away, baby steps. Maybe reach for an apple as a snack instead of a cookie. Everyone is different. If you want to jump in with a full diet plan or if you want to commit to packing only healthy lunches for work this week you’re taking steps in the right direction.
2. Get in some exercise
Healthy eating often comes as a package deal along with exercise. Again, you don’t have to commit to running a marathon tomorrow. (Unless that sounds like a motivating challenge, then go for it!) Maybe this week start each day with a walk around your neighborhood or try one of those 30-day yoga challenges. Even 20 minutes of exercise a day can make you feel like a new person.
3. Keep up your hygiene
Perhaps the most cliche way to take care of yourself is to take care of the basics: hygiene. It’s easy to feel sluggish when it’s been three days since your last shower and you don’t remember how long you’ve been wearing that same pair of sweats. Take a shower, put on a clean pair of pants, prioritize your hygiene, and you’re sure to perk up.
4. Make sure you can afford to be healthy
Your health is crucial. That’s why you need to be sure you can afford quality health care. The good news is companies around the country are relying on an affordable alternative to medishare. These group health plans allow employees to pay a lower rate while still enjoying quality care. These plans are a good option for small businesses and start-ups, so now you have a better choice to lower your health care costs no matter where you work.
Mental Health
Now that you’ve taken care of your body, you can focus on your mental health. What are some ways to shake up your routine and bring a spark back to your life?
1. Find your people
The importance of your community cannot be understated. Rely on your friends in times when you feel stuck. Maybe even reach out to someone you’ve lost touch with or plan a fun girl’s weekend. Your friends have your best interests at heart, and they’ll jump at the opportunity to help make you better.
2. Go on adventures
A great way to get the spark back into your life is to get away from the mundane of the everyday. Go on an adventure. Anything from a visit to a new museum in your hometown to a month-long European vacation qualifies.
3. Treat yourself
Taking care of yourself should involve treating yourself. Go on a shopping spree. Check out the great deals at Chico’s to get lady’s dress pants or a fabulous new dress. Your wardrobe expresses the core of who you are. So you don’t need a special occasion to feel like a ten out of ten. Treat yourself to a fabulous new outfit today.
4. Spend time on you
In order to take care of yourself, you have to prioritize yourself. Everyone from your boss to your family to your friends is going to demand your time and expertise. Set aside time each day to journal, meditate, read, or engage in a creative activity. Spending time alone with you and your thoughts will help you feel grounded and ready to take on whatever a new day brings.