"Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life’s hard." ― John Bytheway
This is the second installment in a two-part series on self-care. If you missed the first one go ahead and read that first.
To successfully implement a new self-care practice consider habit stacking. “Attach” the new activity to an existing habit. Complete a current established action and immediately follow it up with the new action.
"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant." ― Robert Louis Stevenson
What do you think of when you hear the term self- care?
According to the National Institutes of Health, self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health.
There are many activities you can engage in to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Set time aside every day to engage in some form of self care, even if it’s only for 5 minutes.
"There are times when we stop, we sit still. We listen and breezes from a whole other world begin to whisper." ― James Carroll
It’s no secret that chronic emotional stress can wreak havoc on the body. I’m sure you’ve heard of the “mind body connection” and you probably have stories of how stress has affected you physically. Current scientific research shows that physical ailments can be caused by stress. And, stress seems to be getting more and more prevalent.
So, what can you do about it? Find ways to effectively process stress and support your body with self-care practices like calming activities, yoga, meditation, breath work, high quality nutrition, essential oils, etc.
“This is the real secret of life – to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now.” — Alan Watts
Mindfulness is defined as a technique in which you focus your full attention only on the present, experiencing thoughts, feelings, and sensations but not judging them. It is a moment by moment awareness of your body, mind, emotions, and environment without judgement.
"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear." ― Rumi
Meditation has many benefits for your emotional well-being as well as your physical health. Meditating in the morning can help you start the day off right and remain calm throughout the day. When practiced in the evening it may help you wind down from the day and promote a good night’s sleep. Meditation may also be useful in relieving stress and anxiety.
