10 Self-care Tips
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines resilience as ‘the ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change. Of course, what the dictionary doesn’t mention is how difficult it can be to come by resilience when faced with misfortune or change. Certainly, a global pandemic would be categorized as unfortunate. In addition, adhering to the safety guidelines to keep yourself safe can bring drastic change to your daily life.
Maintaining quality of life during challenging times requires a measure of resilience supported by a keen focus on self-care. These 10 tips can help you get there:
Maintain a Schedule – Hold on to a sense of normalcy by maintaining your typical schedule as best you can. The familiarity of structure can be calming.
Eat Well – Make good nutritional choices. After all, you are what you eat. Fill your plate with healthy choices including plenty of fruits and vegetables. And, be sure to enjoy dessert occasionally.
Share Your Feelings – Reach out to family, friends and caregivers to share how you’re feeling. Having your emotions validated can be both comforting and empowering.
Exercise Your Brain – Keep yourself intellectually engaged by reciting prayers, reading books or doing crossword/jigsaw puzzles to help keep your brain sharp.
Stay Active – Go for a walk, stretch your body, take part in an online exercise class. Help boost your immune system by adding physical activity to your daily routine.
Be Social – Rather than social distance, strive to distantly socialize. Learn to connect with family and friends via technology – and do it every day. Connecting with loved ones in any way will elevate your mood.
Be Mindful – Spend quality quiet time in the moment by being truly aware of your thoughts and environment. Stay focused on the present rather than allowing your mind to stray to the past or future.
Manage Stress – Set aside your worries for a few moments each day. Take time to relax, get outside for fresh air or enjoy green space to provide a bit of much needed perspective.
Be Helpful – Extend yourself to others. Lend a helping hand or offer an empathetic ear to someone who could use it. Simple acts of kindness are sure to be uplifting for you both.
Sleep Well – Catch seven to nine hours of z’s each night. Take the time to rest. Adequate sleep helps keep your body, mind and spirit stay vibrant and healthy.