There are many areas of your life beyond your control. Sadly, the fear of the unknown can lead to people experiencing stress, anxiety and even depression, as they will be unable to predict their future.
However, one thing you can control in your life is self-care, which can prevent the development of the above mental health issues. If you constantly find you’re putting your happiness on the backburner, read these four reasons why self-care is essential.
Protect Your Physical Health
Many people believe diet and exercise can be the key to a healthy lifestyle; however, self-pampering could be just as important. While it can’t help you to lose weight or build muscle, it can trigger a relaxation response that can prevent chronic stress that can damage your physical health, as it can reduce hypertension and decrease the likelihood of a stroke or heart attack.
It is recommended that you undergo 30 minutes of cardio each day. You can do this by walking during your lunch break, running in the morning or after work, or hitting the gym and using the cardio machines provided. The best cardio is High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT).
Safeguard Your Emotional Wellbeing
In addition to many physical benefits, taking time to care for yourself can also safeguard your emotional wellbeing. A well-cared-for body can lift your self-
For example, a soothing massage will make you feel a million miles away from your workplace or busy home life, so you can enjoy both a mental and physical break and will feel refreshed and rejuvenated when you return to your everyday routine. It is therefore important to embark on relaxing, fun activities that will help to wash away your daily worries.
Prevent Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
Self-care is about adopting healthy habits that can help a person to cope with life’s various stresses and strains successfully. For example, physical activity can be an effective way to release anger in the body, while a relaxing soak in a hot bath could help to ease any built-up stress or tension.
As stated, a lack of self-care can lead to the development of stress, anxiety or depression. As a result, a person might embrace one or more unhealthy habits to cope with their overwhelming emotions.
For example, they might be tempted to regularly pick up a bottle of wine or turn to drugs to deal with their feelings. Unfortunately, this could lead to a substance abuse addiction, which could damage many aspects of their life. Consult Epiphany Sober Living if you are living with a substance abuse dependency.
You Will Become a Better Caregiver
If you regularly neglect your personal needs, it is likely you will experience low self-esteem and a deeper level of unhappiness. Unfortunately, the mental and physical toll could impact your ability to care for others, such as your children or a dependent loved one.
If you want to become the best possible caretaker for your loved ones, you must regularly take care of yourself. Run yourself a hot bath, deep clean your pores, laugh aloud to a comedy movie or an online video, read a good book, or schedule a long-awaited catch-up with friends.
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