I don’t know about you, but the last few months have been stressful! There is a lot that is out of our control which can leave us feeling isolated, emotional, and unwell. It’s important to have a variety of good stress management techniques to help you relax, clear your mind, and replenish.
Self-care is a great way to de-stress and can help improve your sleep, mood, and immune system. With July 24th being International Self-Care Day, this month I will be providing you with some self-care ideas so you can invest in yourself and successfully manage your stress.
Self-care looks different for everyone; whether you enjoy being physically active, cooking, playing online games with friends, talking with family, meditating, getting a good night’s sleep, or reading, be sure to take some time to prioritize your physical, social, and mental health.
PHYSICAL SELF-CARE
Taking care of your body is an important part of stress management. Some examples of physical self-care include getting a massage, exercise, and eating well.
Exercise helps to reduce your risk of chronic diseases while increasing energy levels, improving mental health, and maintaining a healthy body weight. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activities each week through cardio exercises or strength training.
Follow Canada’s Food Guide for healthy eating and aim for half your plate of fruits and vegetables, a quarter plate of whole grains, and a quarter plate of protein sources. Take some time this week to cook your favourite meal and invest in your physical self.
SOCIAL SELF-CARE
As social beings, interacting with others can be a key part of self-care. Getting social support and staying connected with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours can be difficult when socially distancing, but it’s not impossible! Phone calls, video chats, online games, and other forms of telecommunication can keep you connected from miles away.
Whether you’re having a virtual party with friends, sharing a meal with family, going on a socially distant hike, or playing with a furry friend, be sure to take care of your social self.
MENTAL SELF-CARE
There are plenty of ways to take care of your mental health. For some people, mental self-care may include limiting their media intake or online social presence. Others may enjoy quiet meditation to relax and manage their stress. Try setting aside some time each day to be mindful and reflect on how your day’s activities, world events, or interactions may be affecting you.
Counsellors and therapists are great resources to help improve your mental health. They help you to understand your emotions and work with you to develop strategies to better manage your stressors.
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