What is Self-Care?

This month, we have been promoting the concept of Self Care within our practice during Valentines week.

 

Chiropractic Assistant Natalie has written this month’s blog on what self care is and 8 ways you can start taking care of yourself today…

 

What is self-care?

Self-care Is the purposeful action of doing something that looks after your mental and physical wellbeing. Even small little acts of self-care can have a big impact on both the mind and the body.  Self-care will be different for everyone, as everyone has different needs, and therefore it needs to be personalised to make the most difference.

Here are 8 ways that you can practice self-care today:

1 – Move your body

Whether it’s going on a walk, doing Pilates or spending an hour lifting weights in the gym, doing something active that you enjoy doing will help you decompress. Exercise also triggers the release of endorphins which are the “feel good” hormone and will therefore help to boost your mood.

2- Stay hydrated

Hydration is very important for maintaining your overall health and wellbeing and to ensure your body is functioning properly. Studies have also shown that being hydrated can lift your mood whereas dehydration can contribute to anxiety and depression.

3 – Practice mindfulness

These days, we are bombarded with many different forms of communication –updates from social media, the phone, email to name a few. It can often feel that we are being pulled in many different directions and so mindfulness is a helpful practice to slow down and allow ourselves time to enjoy the present.

4 – Try something new

A little bit of adaptability can go a long way. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby or taking a new route to work, challenge your brain and body by doing something you have not done before.

5 – Go to bed earlier

Nearly 71% of the UK population does not have the recommended 7-9 hours sleep a night. Sleep is so important for our mood and to allow the body time to rest and repair. Studies have shown that those who do not get enough sleep are more prone to anxiety and depression. If you struggle with sleep, try to switch off from all technology at least an hour before bedtime and implement a “wind down” routine at the same time each evening before bed.

6 – Detox from technology

As we have already mentioned above, we are switched on 24/7 to many different forms of input from technology, Limiting screentime can help you slow down and also improve your sleep.

7 – Say no

Take time to prioritise your wellbeing and don’t think you have to commit to every obligation. You can say no to things politely and with grace rather than over-schedule.

8 – Spend time with a furry friend

There’s evidence playing with and looking after a pet may help reduce stress, increase energy and happiness and ease feelings of loneliness.

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