How To Take Care Of Yourself Starting Today
Top Reasons To Take Care Of Yourself Starting Today
We could dedicate blog after blog to the pros of self-care. However, it’s easiest to sum it up by saying that taking care of yourself is widely beneficial to your physical and mental health. By exerting some of the energy you give to others into yourself, your proverbial tank will be full, and you will be more emotionally ready to tackle issues that drain you.
Today, we will take a look at several ways you can increase your mental health by prioritizing the person in the mirror.
Consider medications.
First and foremost, if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, know that you do not have to go it alone. Consider seeking the services of a licensed mental health care physician, who can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe antidepressant medication. The effectiveness of depression meds is dependent upon the person, and not all issues will respond. Your doctor will need to know about any existing conditions as well as your family history. You also need to make sure that you can follow up often so that your doctor can monitor for safety. Something else to consider (that the Dear Felicia blog has touched on before) is that some medications can impact one another, so don’t forget to give your doctor a list of your current prescriptions.
Check your plate.
You are what you eat. Yes, we know how cliché that sounds. But, it’s true. When you eat bad foods, you’re sluggish, and your body has trouble knowing what to do. However, when you switch things like salty snacks and sugary drinks for healthier options, like smoothies, nuts, fruits, and fresh vegetables, your body can put these materials to use giving you energy, and the fiber inside of them will keep you full.
Clean your house.
A clean home, is a happy home, is a healthy home. If you notice that your family is whining and crying about each other all the time, start with the basics and clean and declutter. Open the windows, scrub the walls, and maybe consider burning some sage. The more positivity you can push inside of your walls, the better. The best part, according to Cleaning Club, is that it only takes 15 minutes each day to have an immaculate home.
Stretch.
Stretching feels good to the body and can have a positive effect on the mind. Make sure to start each morning with a healthy stretch, which is one small action you can take to set the tone for the day. A quick tip here: if stretching hurts, contact your doctor or physical therapist for insight on the right techniques.
Learn the word, “no.”
Katrina Kenison tells the Oprah blog that we all need time alone for growth and self-renewal. The best way to get this is to quit stretching yourself so thin. Remember, it’s okay to say no when asked to take on additional responsibilities. There’s no reason that you have to interfere with your personal time to appease other people.
Pay your bills on time.
One of the best ways to eliminate stress, especially financial stress, is to simply pay your bills on time. This might take moving money around on your part but knowing that your bills are paid will keep you from thinking about them. Truist offers this advice: set up bill pay reminders and align your due dates with your paydays.
Look at the stars.
You are part of a bigger picture, and you don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. While it might seem silly, spend some time looking at the stars, the mountains, or across the ocean. Doing so can help remind you that there is a huge world out there and that you owe it to yourself to be a part of it instead of staying home worrying about why you can’t.
Ultimately, self-care does not look the same for everyone. Whether you choose to learn to say no, visit a therapist online or in person or aim your eyes toward the sky, every little thing you do will boost your mental health. Don’t wait. Today is the exact right day to begin treating yourself with the love you deserve.
Dear Felicia addresses all things pertinent to the “invisible diseases.” Visit the page often for updated content curated just for you.
This post was submitted by Julie Morris of juliemorris.org
Image via Pexels
