Guest piece: 8 Underrated Self-Care Tips You Can Do Right Now
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8 Underrated Self-Care Tips You Can Do Right Now
Articles about self-care are everywhere these days, but that doesn’t make the topic any less important. It’s more affordable than you realize, and much of it involves simple habits that can make your day-to-day activities that much easier. Here are some ways you can make your life easier right now.
1. Munch on healthy snacks
Snacking is a major part of many of our diets, and when it’s done correctly, it can be a powerful way to mediate health and manage weight. This also includes the rest of your diet. If you’re struggling with time and effort, try a meal delivery service. A food delivery service can help you have a diverse diet and eat healthy food without ever getting tired of the same items.
2. Quit the internet
Okay, you don’t need to completely quit the internet — that’s pretty unrealistic. However, spending lots of time on the internet can negatively impact your mental health. Limiting your time surfing the web can help protect your mental wellness. Find other things to do in your spare time, such as reading a book, drawing, writing down your thoughts, working on a puzzle, or knitting.
3. Organize your home
Having a clean house can clean up your mind. Start somewhere small, like maybe your closet or one of the rooms in your house. You can start by getting rid of the clutter you don’t want anymore, which will give you an instant but continuous mood boost. If nothing else, you can put all your items in a particular area and vacuum all around to at least get started. You don’t have to do everything on your own; consider bringing in professionals to help give your home a deep cleaning. In Iowa City, you’ll likely pay between $125 and $196 for a cleaning service.
4. Take a long walk
Walking is a miracle exercise that almost anyone can do. Studies have shown that besides the profound physical benefits walking provides to heart health, it can also promote better sleep, and even offer a small mental health boost. If you sit for long periods of time, interrupt that by taking periodic walks. If you have more time, go for longer walks to enjoy the cardio benefits. It can help you think and solve problems you might be facing.
5. Make something with your hands
Many people find that the act of producing something with their own hands is a valuable and gratifying activity in a world that is rife with instantaneous technological satisfaction. If you’ve always wanted to try calligraphy (the average cost of an hour-long lesson is $62), now’s your chance, or maybe you’re leaning toward creating collages. Cut something up, paste it to the canvas of your choosing, and keep doing it. Art therapy is a great way for you to focus on something without even needing to leave the house.
6. Catch up on sleep
Sleep is something most people enjoy, and yet it can be so hard to get to bed at a decent hour or even simply fall asleep. Make a goal to start getting ready for bed 30 minutes earlier than you usually do. Then, you can start winding down, allowing yourself to fall asleep much more easily. The benefits range from improved memory to having a safer commute.
7. Write down what’s on your mind
Journaling can help you get your thoughts onto paper and help you organize yourself. Make bulleted lists of what you need to do, or write down what you’re grateful for. It’s been shown in people who write regularly that the activity can reduce stress levels and promote a positive mood. Get yourself a small notebook that you like, and write down whatever thoughts you have. It’ll improve your everyday activities.
8. Drink some water
As an article from the Mayo Clinic reminds us that even mild dehydration can sap energy and leave us feeling tired. Try to drink a little bit of water throughout the day. The standard eight glasses of water isn’t necessary; just try to be sipping on water regularly.
Experts remind self-care practitioners that the central purpose of these activities is to reduce stress and recharge mental and emotional energy. Self-care can involve some pampering, but it’s largely about taking care of your body and mind, and taking active steps to improve your life. Don’t feel pressured to do all these things at once — just start somewhere.
Brad Krause is a self-care advocate and writer. Find more articles and inspiration on his site: selfcaring.info