Are you taking care of yourself? August is National Wellness Month – a time to focus on nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. All dimensions of well-being are equally important! Here are some great ways to start prioritizing your self-care.
Make Time for Yourself
Dedicate some time to activities that bring you joy and relaxation each day. No judgment! It could be reading a good book, going for a walk in the park, spending time on a craft project, playing a relaxing video game, or even shopping. Too many of us schedule all our time for others and none for ourselves.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is one of the best ways to reduce stress. You don’t have to engage in complicated medication techniques (although you can if you want). Simple techniques are often effective! This might include journaling, writing down things you are grateful for, eating more slowly to savor your food, or spending time in nature. Our unguided meditations are a great way to self-reflect and journal, or if you are new to meditation, you can explore many other options with guided prompts to help navigate your mind to calmness!
Stay Hydrated
Most people don’t drink enough water, and your body needs water. Track your water intake throughout the month and challenge yourself to drink more water. If you think you’re hungry, try water first, as many people confuse the two sensations.
Nourish Your Body
Eat more fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Keep your diet balanced and avoid the temptation to reach for baked goods too often. Good summer treats include homemade popsicles, fruit water (which is a really good way to both nourish and hydrate), and fresh fruit in general.
Digital Detox
Take time away from screens. Create screen-free zones in your home. Keep your phone out of your bedroom if at all possible – this also discourages texting in bed, which can mess up your sleep cycle. Enjoy lunch away from your computer. Consider taking the occasional day off from the internet.
Get Moving
This doesn’t have to mean formal workouts, although it can. The best exercise activity is one you enjoy. Going for a walk, working in the garden, and cleaning your home, all count as physical activity. Need a little boost? Try our ‘Just Move Challenge’ for some quick and easy ways to stay physically active and motivated.
Embrace the Outdoors
Spend time in nature. Exposure to nature, what the Japanese call “forest bathing,” improves sleep quality, reduces stress, and supports your immune system. If it’s hot, go outside in the early morning or late evening. If you absolutely can’t go outside for a period of time, consider using a seasonal affective disorder treatment light to help your mood. Pro tip: Spending a few minutes outside right after you get up helps you wake up and regulates your sleep cycle. You can strengthen your body, sweat with some equipment-free cardio, or relieve tension through stretching with SworkitHealth, all while enjoying the great outdoors!
Connect With Others
Spend time with the people you care about. Build relationships with others. Visit friends. Call family. Video conferencing isn’t a full substitute for face-to-face visits, but it is useful if you’re a long distance apart. Consider joining a book club, craft club, roleplaying game group, etc.
Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you are feeling depressed or isolated.
Prioritize Sleep
The vast majority of American adults don’t get enough sleep. Make sure that you set aside enough time for sleep and that your bedroom is a comfortable haven. Good quality pillows and bedding help, so does keeping your bedroom quiet and cool. Avoid doing anything in your bed other than sleep and intimacy. If you’re seeking a way to enhance your sleep quality, consider listening to our Binaural Beats for Sleep music as you drift off into a restful slumber.
Celebrate Wellness at Work
We spend a lot of our time at work. Encourage your workplace to promote wellness through nutrition workshops, fitness challenges, and even walking meetings. This will lead to a healthier work environment and improved productivity.
Sworkit Health can help. We provide a simplified total well-being solution that supports physical activity, mental health, musculoskeletal health, and nutrition. Let us help you improve your wellness and your life this August…and throughout the year.
Comment section