Self-care is your ability to give your mind and body what they need in order to stay healthy and feel well.
This includes eating well, being active, de-stressing, getting enough sleep, and engaging in leisure-time activities that bring you joy and help recharge your batteries.
In my 40 + years treating patients, I’ve found that those who engage in regular self-care practices, do better managing weight and boosting health than those who keep giving away their time to others.
Taking care of yourself is not being selfish.
Instead, it’s a reminder that your health and happiness are worth the time and effort.
How to Fit Self-Care into a Busy Life?
Though self-care is important to reinvigorate your energy level, how do you make time for something when your day is most likely already overscheduled?
I encourage you each and every day to look for opportunities to fit in some common self-care practices.
A few minutes here and there can really make a difference in your energy level and mood.
Here are some examples:
- take deeper and refreshing breaths
- expand your music play list and listen to music
- keep healthy foods at home to make healthier choices the easiest ones
- wear an activity tracker to motivate moving more
- pursue a hobby that brings you joy whether it’s playing guitar, knitting, dancing, reading or biking
- treat yourself to a spa day at home by soaking in a warm bath
- establish a relaxing bedtime routine to get more restorative sleep
Better sleep and better self-care often go together.
Instead of having to completely overhaul your lifestyle, you can do some common self-care practices each and every day that help you stay grounded.
Self-care is not just for weekends!
If you want to improve your self-care, check out my self-help book, Six Factors to Fit: Weight Loss that Works for You!
RK
Robert Kushner, MD
