Continue to prioritize self-care this month. A few continuous acts of self-care can turn into healthy habits for the rest of your life.
Self-care is important because it is believed by many mental health professionals that caring for others begins with yourself. Just as on a plane you are supposed to put on your own oxygen mask first, in life and in health care, you can’t provide the most quality care you’re capable of if you don’t take care of yourself.
1. Sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee, hot chocolate or tea. Do nothing else but enjoy the warm beverage in your hands.
2. Make a list of five things you're grateful for in this moment in time.
3. Take a 5- or 10-minute walk. If the weather is bearable, go outside and breathe in some fresh air.
4. Take four deep, slow breaths - 4 counts in, followed by 4 counts out, while at work. Do it every hour or half hour if you need.
5. Get in bed 30 minutes earlier one night. Even doing this one night a week can make a difference.
6. Write down a success you had this year in making a lifestyle change. Documenting successes can help inspire you to achieve further success in that area or new successes.