It’s easy to become so focused on caring for others that we forget to take time to care for ourselves. Self-care is extremely important and it isn’t selfish. In fact, caring for yourself can enable you to better care for others. It also contributes to better physical, emotional and mental health. Dr. Camille Dillard, the Preventive Medicine physician at Natural Health Center in Rome, NY, can help you develop a self-care plan for better mental health.
Health Benefits of Self-Care
Self-care involves taking the time to do things that help improve your overall health. Caring for yourself regularly helps reduce stress, boost mood and increase energy. Self-care can also lower your risk of becoming ill. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and make us more vulnerable to illness. Managing stress by making self-care a priority can contribute to better physical, emotional, and mental health.
Practicing Self-Care
There are many ways to practice self-care. The knowledgeable and caring preventive medicine physician at our Rome, NY, health center can provide specific recommendations tailored to your interests and needs.
An important aspect of self-care is consistency. While still beneficial, only practicing self-care once in a while is not ideal. You don’t want to wait until you are overly stressed, emotionally drained, or both physically and mentally exhausted to care for yourself. Taking time to practice self-care regularly, on the other hand, can have lasting positive effects.
Some simple ways to practice self-care include:
- Getting plenty of restful sleep
- Eating healthy foods to improve health
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Engaging in moderate exercise regularly
- Participating in a hobby or relaxing activity
- Talking to a trusted friend/family member when feeling stressed
- Practicing breathing exercises
- Scheduling quiet time for yourself
A self-care routine can differ from one person to another. Choose practices and activities that appeal to you. For example, some individuals enjoy high-intensity exercise routines while others prefer a relaxing walk. Both activities can boost mood and improve physical, emotional, and mental health. Develop self-care habits that work for you.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. When you are more healthy overall, you can better care for those around you. For help with self-care, schedule an appointment with Dr. Dillard, our compassionate and skilled Preventive Medicine physician, by calling Natural Health Center in Rome, NY, at (888) 338-WELL.