Self Care Comes First

Happy Heart Month! The annual occasion prompts us to prioritize heart health. This month also brings us a Valentine's Day, a day to celebrate and honor love in all forms. Most importantly though, we must show ourselves care and gratitude everyday through self-care practices! Let heart month be your invitation to start some habits to nurture your physical and emotional wellbeing. Here are some self care practices to incorporate more balance and ease in our everyday life: 

Get Regular Exercise 

Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.

Focus on Positivity 

Identify and challenge your negative & unhelpful thoughts.

Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated 

A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee.

Try a relaxing activity 

Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy such as journaling.

Practice Gratitude

Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind.

Make sleep a priority

Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.

Set Goals & priorities

Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.

Stay connected

Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.

Source: Learn more about caring for your mental health at National Institute of Mental Health

Message us today via your patient portal if you could use some help with establishing self care routines or would like to get connected to body, mind and spirit care services at Inspired Health Group