12 Quick Tips to Take Care of Yourself
Happy Mother’s Day to all of our members! While anyone who is a mother knows that every day is Mother’s Day, it’s nice to know that at least one day each year we will be celebrated and recognized for our role as parents!
Interestingly, Mother’s Day is in the spring, a time when we celebrate the rebirth and renewal of our Earth. Flowers are poking through the ground, the grass is greener, the air is fresh, buds are on the trees, and the last remains of winter are finally gone. With all of the promise of renewal this season, it’s a great time to reflect on the ways we nurture ourselves, and how we are doing with our health goals.
Just as we tend to our families and friends, our homes, our gardens, and our jobs, it is just as important to remember to tend to ourselves as well. When our own needs are met we feel better and are more able to face the world and all of our responsibilities in a positive way. It is also important that we have goals for ourselves, and that we keep working toward achieving them. The better you feel emotionally, the more likely it is you will maintain your commitment to self-care.
As you think about your own growth and renewal, consider the following 12 tips:
- Take time for yourself to relax, unwind, or do the things you enjoy doing.
- Spend time with positive people who support you. Share your thoughts and feelings with people you trust.
- Learn to laugh at yourself when things don’t work out the way you planned, and know there is always tomorrow.
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night so your body has time to rest and heal.
- Drink lots of water – at least half or your body weight in ounces per day.
- Eat a diet full of a variety of vegetables and fruits, as well as lean protein.
- Evaluate your fitness level and try to add in one new activity, or increase the amount of time you exercise.
- Spend some time outdoors each day, soaking up the freshness and rebirth of spring.
- Post pictures or quotes that inspire you in places where you will see them daily.
- At the end of each day, think of a few things you are grateful for. No matter how bad a day may be, there is always something positive you can be thankful for.
- Accept yourself for who you are right now. No one is perfect, and all of us make mistakes. Give yourself permission to be human.
- Tell someone you love or care about them. While cards and gifts are nice on Mother’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, and other occasions, a genuine expression of caring from one human to another goes a long way for all involved.
It can be easy to ignore your own needs when life is busy and full of responsibilities, but that is when it is most important to nurture yourself and create balance. Some days will be easier than others, but always remember you are worth the time and effort it takes to live your life to the fullest and experience peace. Your life can be an example of renewal, nurturing, and rebirth as you continue on the road of self-discovery and wellness. Keep up the good work!
Next time we will start thinking ahead toward fun activities you can do when your kids are out of school for the summer.