I currently work as a job coach. This job is beneficial, but at times it can be extremely difficult. I undergo constant stress. It comes from a number of things, but the big one is being falsely accused of abuse, neglect, or exploitation (ANE). Working so much, and undergoing so much stress is draining physically, and mentally. Sometimes I need a way to unwind. I go to therapy, so talking out my feelings and doing small activities with my therapist helps a lot, but that only one day out the week. What do I do the rest of the week to unwind? Here are five things that I do to engage in self-care: 1. Practice Mindfulness and Stillness I first heard of mindfulness and stillness in my Positive Psychology class during my undergrad at UNM. Initially, the idea of focusing on the present and staying still was foreign to me. I didn't understand how these two practices actually helped until I did a mindfulness and stillness exercise. Focusing on the present helps reduce stress because you're not dwelling on the past or future. Just sitting around and doing nothing helps the mind and body take a break. I've recently gotten into scented candles, so sometimes when I am practicing stillness I light a candle, sit in a comfortable position, close my eyes, and be still. I usually do this ritual before bed, but sometimes I do it at any free time I have. I recently practiced mindful eating. I actually sat down and enjoyed my meal rather than just scarf it down like I am good at. Sometimes it's nice just to slow down and focus on the present. 2. Drink water Water is life! Excuse the lame statement, but it's true. Water has so many benefits for the mind and body it would be a sin to not drink it. Soft drinks, alcohol, tea, and anything else you drink is okay in moderation, but can potentially lead to health problems if over consumed. Water is the purest of all. Drink plenty of water! I've noticed when I drink more water I feel happier. I've been trying to drink at least a gallon of water a day to help flush out all the toxins in my body. I used to drink a gallon a day with no problems but lately I've struggled a little bit more. With more practice, I'll get used to drinking a gallon soon enough. 3. Exercise Dance, go for a walk, go to the gym, do yoga, move your body! Daily exercise helps relieve stress, anxiety and keeps you healthy. Moving for at least 30 minutes a day can help you mentally and physically. Have you ever experienced a natural high from exercise? If you have, it's because exercising releases all the feel-good chemicals in your brain. I love getting a natural high after working out because I feel like I have accomplished something great! I've been going to the gym with a friend lately along with doing other forms of exercise. I am not looking for results in the terms of weight loss, but I am looking to see a difference in my mood. I exercise daily and I can see a huge difference from when I exercised once or twice a week. 4. Stretch Along with exercise, stretching is very beneficial. I, personally, stretch before and after a workout. Stretching helps muscles relax (especially after a workout). Stretching also releases the feel-good chemicals in your brain. When I go on the StairMaster at the gym I look forward to the stretching after. It feel great to loosen up my muscles after a hard work out like the StairMaster. I also stretch in the morning to help me wake up, and I stretch at night to help me fall asleep. After a good stretching session, I feel loose and ready for whatever else comes my way. 5. Find a creative outlet
Expressing creativity really helps me relax. I write blog posts, or even just write down my thoughts on paper. But I have also started expressing myself in small creative projects. I recently made a Zine for My Heart Beats NM. (Thanks for the idea Cushy!) In past posts, I've talked about making my own affirmation cards. It's fun finding an affirmation that specifically relates to me and decorating the card with my 64 pack of crayons. Another thing that I've been doing is slowly decorating my house. I printed a lot of pictures and put them up and I'm starting to look at paint so we can paint our walls. It's been a lot of fun releasing my creativity it's something I've never done before, and I refuse to stop! Self-care might not seem like a huge deal to some because of our busy lifestyles. That's understandable, but you need to realize that stress can kill you. You need to take care of yourself and check in with your mind and body at least once a week. Trust me, you will see a difference when you actually take the time to take care of yourself inside and out. I challenge you all to practice self-care at least once a day, even for the smallest amount of time. Then let me know if you notice a difference in your life.
0 Comments
|
dreaAlways remember to love yourself. Categories |