One of the most important things that you can do for yourself is to take better care of yourself. Many of you may find it hard to put yourself first when everything else seems so much more important or pressing. However, you have to remember that you are important and that you are completely worth being put first.
If you don’t put yourself first you will run yourself into the ground. And you can’t do anything for anyone, if you are totally run down.
Here are 10 ways to take better care of yourself:
1. Schedule “Me” Time
If you are a planner and your schedule is crazy and chaotic, schedule “Me” time – a tip I got from one of the members of my SMART weight loss group. Also, use a highlighter to block out time that is just for you. Everything else can wait just you can and should schedule things around your “me” time.
2. Ask For Help
You might feel like you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, but it is always okay to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to let others know when you need help.
3. Spend 5 Minutes Doing Nothing
When was the last time you sat totally still and didn’t do anything? In our daily lives, we are always moving and doing something. Sometimes, it is important to just slow down and take a breather. In addition:
- Take 5 minutes out to turn off everything and sit totally still.
- Close your eyes.
- Just focus on your breathing and clear your mind.
4. Pamper Yourself
There is no need for an expensive spa to pamper yourself. You can create your own spa experience at home. Get some bath salts, candles and an eye mask. Just soak and let the stress wash away.
5. Go For A Walk
We all know that exercise is good for us, but it can sometimes be akin to added pressure. Taking a walk can help you not only get physical activity, but also gives you time to reflect on your day. You don’t need any equipment and it costs you absolutely nothing.
6. Drink Plenty Of Water
Drinking water is essential to keeping you hydrated. Adequate hydration can stave off hunger and help you with headaches. Many people don’t realize that they may be experiencing headaches due to dehydration.
7. Take A Nap
They aren’t called power naps for nothing. A quick nap can revitalize you and boost memory. Did you know that sleeping actually burns more calories than watching TV? So instead of sitting on the couch, opt for a nap and wake up refreshed.
8. Be Mindful
It may be difficult to be totally present when you are worried about paying bills, screaming kids, the future and the past, but you have to just stop. Being mindful is about being totally present in the moment. Admire the little moments in your life.
Those screaming kids won’t be kids forever, so enjoy them while they small. Your next meal will be totally present by examining your food and savoring the taste, smell and texture. Mindfulness and mindful eating can do wonders for your life.
9. Scream
Yes! When you get really frustrated, stressed or angry, just go outside or grab a pillow and scream as loud as you can. Sometimes, the only way we can release those feeling is to scream them out. According to Chinese medicine, screaming is actually good for your health. Now don’t go and scream at anyone, just use it as a private release.
10. De-clutter
Whether it is de-cluttering your closet or your mind, getting rid of old stuff can lift a weight off of your shoulders. A great book for this is The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing. You may realize that you have been carrying around a lot of mental and physical stuff over the years.
Now you can go and use these tips to take better care of yourself and in turn take better care of your loved ones.
