Embrace Selfish Necessities and Self Care Through It All

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2022 has begun and already it is fraught with challenges. It’s important to remember that you are not alone. But, sometimes you need to be alone. With our work from home world it is important to draw boundaries and create stop cues that help us stop working and take time for other things… including ourselves. Sometimes it is okay to be open to selfish necessities and to take time for your own mental health. Creating consistent daily habits for yourself will help you stay healthier and happier.

A question to consider, whether now or in the days ahead: How do you remember to take care of yourself when you are a busy caregiver, teacher, frontline worker, stressed small business owner, or employee?

You can try these simple tips to stay successful and on track with your own health as you do so many things for others. Think of how it works with oxygen masks on an airplane, they ask you to put on your mask before assisting others so that everyone benefits as much as possible.

1. Exercise. This can help you relax, find a rhythm, and flow in a healthy way. Ask yourself, have you ever worked out and afterwards said, “I wish I didn’t do that.” You will feel better afterwards… Just do it.

2. Stay Social. Isolation can take its toll on your physical and mental health. It could have adverse effects just like getting COVID or other health risks. Reset and balance your priorities by writing down goals for fun activities. Make them front and center so you can remember what is important to you as you share the fun experiences on your list with others.

3. Redesign. Make time for the things you love. Start a new hobby, read a new book, tackle that project that you have been waiting to complete. Make small steps to redesign the success you imagine into your life.

4. Breathe. Everyone can do this. Take time to do this with exercise or throughout the day. It can decrease stress, anxiety, depression, and even fatigue.

5. Quality of Life. Do you love your life and are you happy? Think of the things you want to improve and start to make steps to move forwards.

Being our best might look different to each person, but self-care is universal and can help all of us have clarity and strength …For Your Life™. Make some time for you, so you can be better for others.

Gary Gianetti has a M.S. in Allied Health and holds certifications in health, fitness, and exercise sciences. When he’s not coaching, he enjoys outdoor adventures on foot, rock, wheels, and in the air with his little ones and his wife. He is the founder of Healthy Altitudes…For Your Life™.