As modern life becomes more demanding, we often find ourselves in situations where we’re stressed out, overwhelmed, or just run down. Practicing a self-care regimen can make all the difference when it comes to living a happy and healthy life vs. one where we are constantly stretched thin and feeling overworked.
While a basic commitment to having a healthy diet and consistent exercise is fundamental to a self-care regimen, there are always ways you can do even more for your mind, body, and spirit.
7 Ways to Improve Your Self-Care Regimen
If you’re not already doing any of the suggestions listed below, then you should definitely consider them in an effort to improve your self-care regimen. Even taking up one or two of these suggestions can make a significant difference in the quality of your life and your overall health.
1. Practice Meditation
While getting your heart rate going on the treadmill, or strength-training with weights, is vital to your physical health, people often forget about the importance of mental health. Practicing techniques like mindful meditation and yoga can ease much of the stress, anxiety, and other mental side effects of day-to-day pressures.
2. Start a New Hobby
It’s healthy to partake in activities that don’t revolve around your work or family. We spend so much of our day at the office or making sure the kids are taken care of; it’s important that we take a break for ourselves and do something that is just for our own pure enjoyment.
If you’re an artist, consider signing up for art classes or a painting workshop. If you like fine wines, maybe there’s a local spot that offers wine tastings or sommelier lessons. Find an activity that you can do that’s just for you and your pleasure.
3. Take Naps
We all know how important sleep is to our health. If you’re not getting enough z’s, then you’re probably feeling fatigued, cranky, or run down during the day. While getting adequate sleep during the night is a necessary part of caring for yourself, naps can be the next best option when you’re looking for relief. We understand that eight hours of sleep isn’t always realistic, but taking a 15-minute power nap in the middle of your day can do wonders for your physical and mental health.
4. Pamper Yourself
While lounging out by the pool and enjoying a blended drink isn’t realistic for everyday life, that doesn’t mean that a little pampering from time-to-time isn’t either. Schedule a spa treatment once a month or a manicure-pedicure every couple of weeks to make yourself feel special. Pampering yourself is about making yourself look and feel good, which can do wonders for your mental health and attitude.
5. Take a Bubble Bath or Read a Book
Plan out a chunk of time each evening to unwind after the day. Whether that’s a 20-minute bubble bath after dinner or hopping into bed a little early to curl up with a good book. Having the quiet time and relaxation of a bath or reading a book can make a world of a difference when you’re trying to de-stress and unwind from a long day.
6. Listen to Motivational Podcasts
Sometimes we just need to hear uplifting words that will make us feel inspired and motivated. Listening to motivational podcasts or recorded audio clips is easy to do while you’re getting ready for work, cooking a meal, or driving in the car. The extra boost of positivity in your daily routine will help you tremendously in your outlook and how you manage day-to-day stressors.
7. Get Dinner with Friends
While the goal of self-care is definitely focused on tending to your individual needs, it doesn’t mean that a self-care regimen can’t include good friends. Socializing with friends at least once a week is important to making you feel connected, emotionally and physically, and allows you to share, learn, and laugh — all of which are vital to a healthy and happy you.
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