We only have one life to live--take care of yourself now.
Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a priority. Taking good care of ourselves is a requisite if we are to be resilient and effective in all aspects of our lives.
If you don’t take care of yourself — who will?
Let’s jump right in — here are the six types of self-care we must practice to live a healthy, robust life:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Spiritual
- Intellectual
- Social
- Sensory
We often take many of these areas for granted unwittingly — not giving them much conscious attention. Or perhaps we attend to them without realizing we are managing our self-care.
Let’s visit them:
Physical
If we didn’t address this area, we wouldn’t be here reading and writing about it. We must feed ourselves, sleep and move.
Let’s enjoy nutrient-dense food, exercise — both aerobically and with strength training and sleep 7–8 hours a night. It sounds simple, but how many of us do it consistently? Oh yes, and don’t forget to drink your water! The amounts vary depending on the researcher— a minimum of 10 eight-ounce glasses a day is necessary.
Emotional
Again being emotionally sound is vital for peace of mind. We should express and acknowledge our feelings often. Consider journaling to vent your sentiments. Doing so helps process issues that are vexing and stopping us from being our best. Writing every morning frees me up to have a productive day.
A hobby and a sport as a means for expression are essential for my well-being. My go-to’s are writing, collage and pickleball. These never fail to help me feel connected to my inner needs. What are your favorite forms of expression?
Spiritual
I was raised a Catholic, though I no longer attend that church. I find my spiritual soul through gratitude via meditation.
I begin my day with a guided meditation, and by the end of it, I’m feeling immense appreciation for my life and health. I thank God I have another day to live my best life now. That is my connection to a being greater than me.
Any method that helps you develop a more profound sense of meaning and realize there is a “something” bigger than yourself is a spiritual practice.
Intellectual
Learning is necessary to grow. Is this self-care? You bet it is. Our minds need stimulation and nourishment to be healthy and promote the growth of neurons in the brain.
Read, read, read! I always have fiction, non-fiction, and spiritual books going at once. I rotate between them to keep those neurons firing.
Take a class to learn something new. Attend the symphony, visit your local art museums — the options are many. Keep curious about life, and you will never be bored, and your intellect will expand.
Social
Keep your friends and family near, see them often, call loved ones who are not nearby.
Perhaps join or start a book club, play a sport with a group of like-minded individuals, get together with a neighbor for a hike or coffee. The choices are vast.
Let’s not forget our spouses — plan a date night or brunch outdoors in the lovely fall weather.
All of these suggestions are indispensable to ward off loneliness and isolation. Make staying connected to others a priority.
Sensory
Lower your stress levels by activating your senses: sight, smell, touch, and sound.
During your walk, notice the flowers your neighbor planted and the leaves turning colors. I try to make a point when I walk my dog, Merlin, to marvel at the giant cacti in my neighborhood. I visit California often and treasure the sight of the gorgeous bay and views of San Francisco while out and about with friends.
Listen to music, pet your dog, kiss your child’s soft cheek — all lovely sensations to relish.
Don’t rush through your meals — savor the flavors and textures.
You are unique. I am, too. We were gifted this one remarkable, blessed life — let’s cherish it and every moment by treating ourselves as the wondrous beings we are.
No comments:
Post a Comment