Written by Molly Law, Family Health Clinic Nurse Practitioner
What better time to discuss the topic of self-care and self-love than in the month of love, February? Today we are going to discuss many aspects of self-care.
What does self-care mean?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, self-care is the practice of taking time to perform activities that improve both physical and mental well-being (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2022).
Why is self-care so important?
Self-care helps to lower one’s chance of getting sick, improves energy levels, decreases stress levels, and promotes overall health (NIMH, 2022). The old adage “you cannot pour from an empty cup” still holds true to this day. When we become so busy taking care of other people and attending to the everyday demands of life and work that we forget to take care of ourselves, we run the risk of becoming burned out, depressed, frustrated, and even ill.
What does self-care look like?
The answer to this question is limitless. A beautiful quality of self-care is that it is unique to every person. Everyone can practice self-care because it can be tailored to each person’s individual likes, interests, and schedules.
For example, self-care can look like taking a 10-minute walk after dinner every night. Self-care can consist of taking quiet time to read a book, listen to music, go for a drive, paint, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, practice meditation, or pray. For some people, self-care may consist of carving out some time each week to visit with a beloved friend or family member. Self-care can manifest as “unplugging” from the electronics-dependent world we live in by silencing the phone, closing the laptop, and turning off the television to enjoy a moment of rest.
The Importance of Diet and Sleep in Self-Care
Maintaining a healthy diet and sleep schedule also play an important role in self-care (NIMH, 2022). A balanced diet low in added sugar and salt and rich in vegetables, lean proteins, fruits, and low-fat dairy promotes overall well-being (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2021). Taking time each week to plan healthy meals is an excellent example of practicing self-care. For excellent, in-depth information regarding a balanced diet, visit Mayo Clinic at the link below (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2021).
Good sleep is critical to brain health and also is necessary to maintain a healthy heart, respiratory system, immune system, and metabolism (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NIH], 2022). Small steps such as keeping bedtime consistent, ensuring your bedroom is dark and quiet, leaving electronics outside of your bedroom, and avoiding snacking before bed can greatly improve sleep (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022).
Live a Well-Balanced Life
In summary, self-care plays an important role in living a well-balanced life. Self-care looks different for each and every person and can be adapted to fit unique schedules. By incorporating self-care practices into everyday life, one can better promote overall wellness, leading to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
Get the care you need.
If you’re looking for a primary healthcare provider to help you reach your health goals, schedule an appointment with the Family Health Clinic at (800) 321-5043.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]. (2022, September 13). Tips for better sleep. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, November 19). Nutrition and healthy eating. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/basics/healthy-diets/hlv-20049477
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, November 19). Nutrition and healthy eating: In-depth. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/hlv-20049477
- National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH]. (2022, December). Caring for your mental health.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NIH]. (2022, March 24). How sleep works: Why is sleep important? https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/why-sleep-important
