Storm Stressed? - Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Self-Care

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, we hope all is well! As the stress of the storm and clean-up passes, we want to remind everyone to take the time to refresh and refuel yourself by practicing self-care to create a healthier daily experience.

What is Self-Care? – To understand why self-care is important, you first need to understand what it is. Self-care is anything you can do for yourself that helps you remain healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Look at it as an investment in yourself and in your health. Don’t worry if your version of self-care is different from others. There’s no one right way to care for yourself – what helps YOU feel happy and healthy is what matters most.

It Helps Your Physical Health – Hectic and stressful days do not leave much down time. You may not get enough sleep, eat as well as you should, or have time to decompress. But, your body needs these things to stay at peak performance. Self-care could mean taking a power nap during the day, attending a yoga class, or eating a healthy meal. Attending to your own physical needs helps your body perform at its best to tackle those daily to-do lists.

It Helps Your Mental Health – It’s important to monitor your own personal medical health because being in a constant state of stress and anxiety can worsen existing mental health issues or create new ones. Practicing self-care can help improve your mental health and keep you on the path to success.

It Helps You Stay Connected to Yourself – With so much going on, it’s easy to forget to check in with yourself. Ask some simple questions: Are you hungry? Tired? Need a break or to unplug for a bit? Taking a few minutes to notice how you’re feeling can help you stay connected to yourself. By doing this on a regular basis, you’ll have a better sense of where you stand physically, mentally, and emotionally.

It Helps You Stay Connected to Others – Self-care may include talking with a counselor, joining a support group, or spending time with trusted friends – all great ways to connect with others who support your self-care journey. Being able to lean on friends, family, and medical professionals can ensure your self-care so you remain healthy in mind and body.

It Can Create Good Lifelong Habits – Let’s face it, life is not easy and taking on many responsibilities can create stress and anxiety. That’s why it’s important to prioritize and incorporate self-care into your daily routine.  Self-care is not selfish; in fact, caring for ourselves is one of the best things we can do for others.

Self-Care Strategies can be as easy as 1-2-3:

1) Take a Walk Outside – the benefits of even a short walk each day include the ability to calm your nervous system and reset your mental outlook on life! 

2) Intentional Breathing – when you feel anxiety or stress building up, stop and take 3 deep breaths. Inhale through your nose - exhale through your mouth. Focus on fresh air flowing through your body and take time to remind yourself that you’ve got this!

3) Plan an Unplug Night Weekly – shut off your phone and listen to relaxing music, read a book, or hang out with friends. Be present with yourself or with the people that you choose to be around. Trust us, the world can wait for you to return a call or text.

Most of all, take time to LAUGH! Laughter truly is the best medicine so surround yourself with those who bring you joy and share a good giggle, chuckle, or belly laugh - you’ll be better off for it!