Start the Year with Good Self-Care
The new year is finally here. For many, that means developing resolutions and setting new goals for themselves. Whether you have specific ideas in mind or you just want this to be a year of better overall health, starting the year with good self-care will make a big difference.What does that mean, exactly?There’s no denying the last couple of years have been difficult.We’re entering our third year of a global pandemic. The economy is less than ideal. There’s social unrest. Knowing how to cope with these uncertain times is important, and that doesn’t mean ignoring what’s going on around you.Often, we may think that self-care is, "selfish". But when you choose to make your own well-being a priority, you can do more for others. So, use these basic self-care skills to “fill your cup,” and you might be surprised by how much more meaningfully you're able to engage in your relationships.
Get Back to Basics
Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. Chances are, you already have all of the knowledge and skills necessary to practice self-care on a daily basis. But, that term has gotten so much use over the last few years, it can be hard to know what self-care really means.You don’t have to do anything luxurious or lavish to take care of yourself. Sometimes, getting back to basics will make the biggest impact.With that in mind, make it a priority to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. These three basic self-care components will go a long way in boosting your energy, keeping you healthy, and allowing your mind to feel relaxed. Pick one of these areas and set small, manageable, realistic goals that are easy for you to track. For instance, you might set a goal of walking 3 times per week for 30 minutes. Or, you might set a sleep goal of getting 8 hours sleep per night, at least 6 nights of the week.
Slow Down and Reflect
We live in a fast-paced society. It’s a rarity to see someone slowing down and appreciating the world around them. But, those that do may be on to something.By forcing yourself to slow down once in a while, you can reflect on your life, as a whole. That might take some practice, at first. As people, we’re just not used to slowing down and taking things in.No side effect have been reported from the users of this product as yet. http://appalachianmagazine.com/2017/03/06/why-you-have-so-many-ladybugs-in-your-home/ viagra ukChoose to practice mindfulness as often as possible. Close your eyes, take a few deep, slow breaths, and focus on the present moment. What does your breathing feel like? What are the sounds that you hear? Immersing yourself in these little moments can go a long way in helping you appreciate more.Mindfulness has also been known to reduce stress and improve energy levels, so don’t hesitate to make it a part of your reflective routine.Journaling is another great way to slow down and reflect. It can take some time to get used to journaling, but whether you jot down a few sentences each day or write more lengthy expressions, it’s a great way to be more mindful of what you do each day. As a bonus, it’s something that will be wonderful to look back on.
Focus On What’s Important
When you aren’t able to cope with life because you’re so overwhelmed, it will start to impact the things that are important. You might start to struggle at work, in your relationship, or with your friendships.Sometimes you may reach a point where it's difficult even to pratice good saelf-care and healthy coping; that doesn't make you weak. It takes a strong person to admit they’re struggling and need help. Consider reaching out for counseling if you find you're having trouble practicing consistent self-care and healthy coping.Taking charge of your mental health is important. If you’ve been looking for a resolution or goal to set for this year, why not make your mental well-being that top priority? Consider individual therapy, and learn healthy coping skills that will stick with you forever.
About: Chanderbhan Psychological Services is a therapy practice located in Laredo, Texas. We help individuals and couples who are struggling in different areas of their lives gain the clarity they need to grow and change. We also offer video counseling services to individuals located in the wider State of Texas. To read blogs on mental health and relationships, visit our website.