The Importance of Self-Care

I’m sure many of you have heard the words “self-care” on social media, tv and in wellness-related magazines and websites. Some of you might think it’s self-indulgent or selfish to incorporate self-care into your life but it’s actually essential to your overall health and well-being.

Why?

In a nutshell, Self-Care is about being kind to yourself & treating yourself as kindly as you treat others. People often think Self Care is all about massages and Mani/Pedi’s, or that it’s selfish to put their own needs before the needs of others. Think of it like when you get on a plane and the flight attendant says to put your own oxygen mask on before you assist others. What help will you be to anyone if you first haven’t provided oxygen for yourself?

Self-care can be anything that makes you feel good and yes, it can be anything! It needs to be a daily practice and something that you prioritize & make time for.

Here’s why it’s so important:

• Better productivity throughout the day
• Improved resistance to disease
• Better physical health
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Increased self-knowledge
• Elevates mood and can help reduce depression and/or anxiety

Some examples of self-care are:

• Eating fresh, healthy food that nourishes your body 80% of the time
• Drinking enough water (I recommend half your body weight in ounces!)
• Moving your body every day. This can be as simple as a walk around the block or some basic stretching
• Getting enough sleep. This is so important! Sleep is when our body has time to reset and replenish. 7-8 hours a night should be minimum.
• Making time to socialize with positive people that support you
• Meditation (this can help with stress and anxiety as well as better quality sleep)
• Journaling. This will help you develop a healthy relationship with yourself and give you mental clarity.
• Taking care of your skin! Whether it’s a facial or just a great skincare routine
• Being present & grateful for what you have right now. Gratitude changes your attitude.

Know your worth!

Self-care is a reminder to yourself & others that your needs are important too. Lack of sleep, eating too much-processed food or being overworked will leave you stressed out, disorganized and depleted. Taking time for yourself will recharge you, refresh your mind and allow you to do your job to the best of your ability, be a better parent/partner/friend and be a happier, healthier person.

Make a promise to take care of yourself & keep it!

Alex