self-care

between a never-ending to-do list, responsibilities of a hectic schedule and caring for others, it can be easy to put self-care on the backburner. Now more than ever a commitment to a healthier lifestyle that includes adequate sleep, reduced stress, regular exercise and unplugging from your devices will benefit your overall well-being, both mentally and physically 5 Self-Care Tips to Enhance Your Well-Being Eat Good. Feel Good. It’s not always easy to change your eating habits or replace fast food and sweet indulgences with healthier options. We get it! However, countless studies show the more you nourish your body with the right foods you’re able to maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk for diseases, improve your memory and reduce inflammation, among other short- and long-term benefits. Prioritize Sleep Most experts recommend 7-9 hours of sleep for the average adult, they say adequate sleep can have a positive impact on how you feel both mentally and physically. We need the right conditions to promote a night of restful sleep so consider having a proper routine; limiting caffeine and sugar intake before bed and reducing distractions such as TV or smartphones to ensure your bedroom is the sleep oasis you need for quality rest. Practice Mindfulness Techniques What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Whether you set aside a few spare minutes or an entire afternoon of free time, finding a quiet place to relax and practice meditation or yoga can help you reduce stress and anxiety, become more self-aware and create a sense of calmness during even the busiest of days. Try setting up a secluded area in your home (or office) where you can concentrate on your practice and listen to yourself. Unplug and Unwind With all the access we have to the internet, social media at our fingertips and mind-numbing television, it can be easy to create bad habits associated with our “always-connected” smartphone-obsessed world. Did you know, our screens emit a blue light proven to negatively impact sleep and mental performance? We suggest setting aside an hour before bed to unplug from your devices and their distractions for a better night’s sleep. As time goes on incrementally increase the amount of time you unplug daily to improve productivity, emotional wellness, and creativity. Move, Stretch and Flow Sure, it’s super important to take care of yourself mentally, BALANCE is the Key! So it’s just as important to take care of your body for your optimum wellness. Find time every day to get in at least 30 minutes of exercise, whether it’s a full-on workout, a brisk walk around the neighborhood or a bike ride to a favorite destination, will boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and help shrink your waistline. Find a regimen that works for you, be it multiple short active periods or one long gym session, and make it part of your daily routine for an easy way to boost both your physical and mental well-being.