Improve Your Self Care Hacks For a Healthier and Happier You
Okay, you know what self care is, right? Well, you'd be surprised how often people get confused when they think of self care.
When you think of those words, do you have a picture in your mind of a duvet day, complete with junk food and a good show? Well, you wouldn't be wrong. There's nothing wrong with having a day where you just relax and fully recharge your batteries.
But proper, healthy self care involves more than this. It can even involve some work. What do we mean?
What Self Care Should Be
The clue to what self care should be is in the name. You're caring for yourself. You don't have to be a medical professional to know that eating unhealthy food and doing nothing all day, every day isn't good for you.
Your body is designed to move, your mind is designed to think, and the food you eat impacts your health directly.
Self care means that you do everything you should do to take care of your needs. Sometimes that might be a full rest day, sometimes that means something else.
Eat Well And Move
As well as taking days off to fully recharge and pamper yourself, basic self care should be an everyday choice.
You've almost certainly heard the advice to eat well and keep fit a thousand times before, but that's because it works. This isn't just good for your physical health as well.
Exercise is proven to be great for your mental health. As you reach your fitness goals, you get a sense of achievement. You also take control of your body in a healthy way.
As with everything else, make sure you take these steps with moderation. There'sa difference between a healthy, well balanced diet and a potentially unhealthy obsession with your diet and weight.
Take Time in Nature
Speaking of things your body and mind are designed for, another great self care is to simply get outside.
A short hike, for example, is a great way to get some cardiovascular exercise in and improve your mental health. It's common knowledge that sunlight can boost your vitamin D levels, potentially improving your mood. It also improves your circadian rhythm, which helps your body regulate your sleep patterns.
You can go on a hike alone for some fresh air and time to be with your own thoughts and mind. Or you can get a social boost and spend time with friends and family. Self care doesn't just have to be alone time, although that's often part of it. Regular socialisation is healthy, even if you're generally happy alone.
If a hike isn't enough nature for you, consider taking a trip to an area soaked in natural beauty. For example, you can find Lake District accommodation that provides a refuge and a taste of luxury in one of the most stunning parts of the UK. Whether you explore the area or simply relax, it's a healthy setting to get your bearings in.