Do you only think about self-care when you are already in stress or turmoil mode? You want to eat healthier because your doctor says you need to lower your cholesterol, or you decide to start meditating because job stress keeps you up at night.

Self-care is more effective when it is a regular, ongoing part of your life. Otherwise, you are stuck trying to catch up, and you may increase your risk for many health issues. Almost 80 percent of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes could be prevented with positive lifestyle changes, according to the World Health Organization.

Start being more proactive about self-care. Adopt new habits that will enhance your physical, social, and psychological wellbeing.

 

Self-Care Habits for Your Physical Wellbeing:

 

1. Lose weight.

Obesity puts a heavy strain on your heart and joints. Take off excess pounds by eating nutrient dense food and reducing your portion sizes. Preparing meals at home rather than dining out will give you more control over the ingredients.

2. Eat more produce.

Plan your daily menu around veggies, fruits, and other whole foods. Most plant foods provide fiber and important vitamins and minerals with relatively few calories.

3. Exercise regularly.

Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or a combination of intense and moderate workouts. Train for strength and flexibility too.

4. Sleep well.

Your body and mind need adequate sleep to function well. Darken your bedroom and block out background noise so you can get 7 to 8 hours of good quality slumber each night.

 

Self-Care Habits for Your Social Wellbeing:

 

1. Cultivate friendships.

Supportive friendships enrich your life by building your confidence and resilience. Schedule standing dates for coffee and lunch. Call a friend when you are upset or when you want to share happy news.

2. Join a club or group.

Some experts believe that loneliness can be just as hazardous to your health as smoking. If you are searching for a sense of community, do volunteer work or join a club (online options count too!!) where you can find others who share your interests.

 

Self-Care Habits for Your Psychological Wellbeing:

 

1. Live mindfully.

Meditate daily or engage in other practices that help you to focus on the here and now. Slow down and concentrate on one activity at a time.

2. Take up a hobby.

Fill your leisure hours with rewarding projects. Learn to play a musical instrument or study a foreign language. Cook gourmet dinners or build wooden furniture. There are many inexpensive hobbies or pastimes where you can earn some income to cover the costs.

3. Laugh it up.

Cultivate the capacity to laugh at yourself. Brighten up a tough day by watching a funny video or listening to your coworker’s jokes.

4. Manage stress.

Enjoy deep breathing or other relaxation methods that work for you. Take frequent breaks throughout the day to relieve tension and restore your energy before tackling your next task. Replace irritation and sadness with forgiveness and gratitude.

Life is full of challenges. You will deal with them more successfully if you practice healthy lifestyle habits consistently. The proactive path to self-care will help you to look after yourself and keep enjoying the activities you love.

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Are you ready to make personal and spiritual changes in your life? Consider a one on one private session with Moira or a reading to free yourself from limitations and open yourself up to greater possibilities? Click here to open the door.

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