Here we are, weeks away from the big holiday boom. The leaves are changing, the air is cooler and the dates for holiday festivities are being set. Maybe this time of year is busy for you and maybe it isn’t so much, but either way, we can’t forget about self-care.
So for those of us that struggle with the concept, self-care encompasses more than just taking a day off every once in a while. Self-care can include relaxing, exercising, unplugging from work and technology, and making wise choices about the food we fuel our bodies with. Essentially, self-care can conveniently be defined as taking personal responsibility in the care and mental state of oneself.
Self-care isn’t my strong suit. Even though my work-a-holic mind fights the concept tooth and nail, I am always thankful afterward I forced myself to participate in self-care. For the rest of the people out there that take it on yourself to take care of everyone before you take care of yourself, here are a few fail-proof tips that will have you feeling more refreshed and productive this holiday season.
1. Exercise regularly.
I’m not talking about signing-up for a marathon here. I’m simply encouraging you to find the thing that gets you moving that can easily be incorporated into your daily life. Stress has a way of accumulating pretty quickly. Exercising is a natural way for our bodies to punch stress in the face and benefit from our good little buddies called endorphins. So invest in a mountain bike to regularly explore the nature around you, join a local fitness class at the community center or kill-two-birds-with-one-stone and invest in your relationship with your sweetie by taking an evening stroll together on weeknights.
2. Treat yourself monthly.
It might be getting a massage, or taking a day trip to your favorite place. Whatever it is for you, invest in yourself by forcing yourself into a peaceful setting away from the pressures of work and everyone else’s needs. If you are like me, you may be trying to convince yourself you don’t need this, but stop. Stop feeling guilty for investing in yourself and just do it.
3. Stop overloading on junk food.
I’m talking to myself here. I love the concept of eating healthy but I often don’t take the time to commit to it. No one else is responsible for what you fuel your body with. No one else cares. But you should. I should. Because at the end of the day, I want to have the energy and the health to keep going and not have to slow down because I didn’t take care of the only body I will ever have. So eat the fresh veggies, the unprocessed nuts, the dense proteins and the real food. Your body will be your biggest fan!
4. Find community.
Whether you are an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, when you are with your people, awesome memories are just so good for the soul. Making friends isn’t always easy, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Get involved in a local philanthropic organization, a local church or a book club. Wherever you find like-minded people, get involved.
This fall, don’t fall victim to stress overload. Be sure to take your time to invest in yourself and your overall health, because no one else is able to do it for you.
