Self Care: More Than Just A Buzzword

January 10, 2018
Odds are you might not be considering stopping by the mattress sale Orange County has available right now unless you’re feeling the effects of an old mattress.  But if you’re trying to take better care of yourself or manage your stress, you may not want to wait until you’re suffering from the stiff neck, sore back, or long hours of restless tossing and turning that can come from sleeping on an old, worn-out, or uncomfortable mattress.  Self-care is an essential component of mental health.  Here are a few ways you can take care of your mind and body.

Develop A Bedtime Routine

Getting enough sleep is vital for managing your stress levels and maintaining your health, and a relaxing bedtime routine can help facilitate that.  Some things to consider including in your routine:

  • A skincare routine – pampering your skin with quality products can keep your skin looking great and feel luxurious and soothing.

  • Relaxing music or white noise – It can be easier to fall asleep when loud or sudden noises are drowned out.

  • Aromatherapy – lavender has been shown to promote sleep.

Find  A Body Practice That You Love

Whether it’s regular pedicures, a professional massage, or using a sauna, consider finding a body practice that you enjoy and indulge in it on a regular basis.  Short on cash?  Many practices can be engaged in at home for a fraction of the cost.  For example, consider:

  • DIY manicure/pedicures

  • Bubble baths

  • Self-massage with foam rollers or tennis balls

  • Using the sauna at your gym

 

 

Make Exercise Fun

We all know that exercise is necessary for good health, but did you know it can help improve your stress and sleep as well?  For best results, find an exercise routine that you enjoy.  Don’t limit yourself to running on a treadmill–consider training for a race, playing Ultimate Frisbee, zumba, dance, or any other activity that you will enjoy and want to keep doing.

Good sleep is an important part of self-care.  When you’ve taken care of your body and mind, don’t forget to hit the sack at a reasonable time, and then you can sleep easy, knowing that you’ve set yourself up to have a great day tomorrow.

 

Sources:

How Sleep Makes You Smarter – www.dailygood.com

Try This Anti-Stress Bedtime Routine – www.popsugar.com