Why is self-care important? | SNHU

Although there is no unit of measurement for self-care, I personally like to compare it to calories, which are literally units of energy. In other words, one calorie equals one unit of energy. Here I see a self-care unit as a personal development unit. The more units of flourishing a person has, the higher their life satisfaction. Subsequently, individuals may find themselves more motivated, more energetic and determined in their efforts.

While calories give you energy, they alone aren’t enough to give you the kind of fulfillment you’re looking for. You need to take the time to not only appreciate your life, but also the positive impact you have on others. Whatever your intention, you cannot continue without having a solid foundation built on self-care. And yes, a healthy diet – which includes nutritious calorie consumption – is also part of it.

First, what does self-care mean?

Self-care can be defined by the term itself: taking care of yourself. This includes everything you do to stay healthy – physically, mentally and spiritually.

While prioritizing self-care may seem like common sense, especially if you’re considering longevity, it’s often the first thing to do when you find yourself in difficult situations, whether due to poor health , a financial crisis, a job loss, a divorce or other. significant event in life. This is why it is important to keep this in mind and not think about it as an afterthought, especially in difficult times.

Why is self-care important?

In a society where people are expected to work long hours and take days off, there is an underlying belief that we must always be productive – which can ultimately deprive us of opportunities for self-care . But by taking the time to engage in this practice, you can relieve the pressures of daily life and reset yourself back to a healthy point where you can be more productive Again. Considering the costs associated with mental health services, lost wages and more, making time for yourself can ultimately benefit everyone.

Burning the candle at both ends, so to speak, has significant consequences, which can include, but are not limited to, burnout, depression, anxiety, resentment and a whole host of other implications negative.

Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve focus, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, improve energy and well Moreover. From a physical health perspective, it has also been clinically proven to reduce heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Spiritually, it can help us stay in tune with our higher power and understand the meaning of our life.

▸ What are the benefits of self-care?

Self-care offers many benefits for your overall well-being. Here are some key benefits:

• Improved physical health: Engaging in activities like exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious meals can improve your physical health, increase your energy levels, and strengthen your immune system.
• Improved mental and emotional well-being: There are several reasons why mental health is important, and taking care of yourself can help reduce stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. It promotes better mental health by providing an opportunity to relax, recharge and participate in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
• Increased productivity and concentration: Self-care allows you to recharge and rejuvenate, leading to increased productivity, better focus, and better problem-solving skills. When you prioritize your well-being, you have more energy and mental clarity to complete daily tasks.
• Better relationships: When you prioritize taking care of yourself, you have more emotional resources to invest in your relationships. Taking time for yourself helps prevent burnout and allows you to show up as your best self in your interactions with others.
• Increased self-esteem and self-esteem: Self-care practices can boost your self-esteem and self-esteem. By prioritizing your needs and engaging in activities that make you feel good, you send the message to yourself that you deserve care and attention.
• Burnout prevention: Taking care of yourself regularly can help prevent burnout, which is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. By taking proactive steps to care for yourself, you can replenish your energy and prevent the negative consequences of burnout. This may be particularly important for those working in the helping professions.

Taking care of yourself is vitally important. Without proper nutrition, physical activity, sleep and the like, you may be able to get by for a while, but eventually you will burn out. It’s not a question of if but when.

How to take care of yourself

Perhaps the most common reason people give for not participating in self-care is lack of time. Even though many of us have a lot going on, it’s imperative that we take time every day for ourselves, even if it’s just a little. And it doesn’t have to cost anything. You can even do it from the comfort of your own home.

Even if you only have 5 minutes spread throughout the day to take care of yourself, it’s definitely better than nothing. Over time, you can significantly improve your overall health and well-being. Even if you’re just starting out, some results can be achieved almost immediately.

▸ What are examples of self-care?

Examples of self-care differ, although little from person to person, but generally meet one or more of the National Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) eight dimensions of well-being (Source pdf SAMHSA).

Although developed by addiction professionals, these dimensions conceptualize the areas of well-being that make up all of us.

Here are some suggestions to consider from each of the eight areas. Feel free to modify, replace, or consider yours as you go. Remember, it’s about you.

• Emotional: Talk to someone, think, journal, read, do something artistic, listen to music, exercise, take a walk, watch something that suits your mood (or do the opposite and change), scream, hug, cuddle, laugh, take a nap.
• Environmental: Take a walk somewhere nice, breathe fresh air, enjoy the sun, enjoy the night sky, avoid littering, pick up trash, reduce waste, use reusable products, recycle, clean your house, remodel a piece.
• Financial: Make a practical financial plan, open a savings account, start saving (even if $1 a day), try to save even more if you’re already saving, invest, cut down on unnecessary purchases, think about where you can save , avoid credit cards, ask for a raise.
• Intellectual: Read, listen to audiobooks, watch documentaries, solve puzzles, pay attention to the world around you, get curious, try something new, tap into your creative/artistic side, take a class, complete a program, get your degree .
• Professional: Learn a trade, get your degree, train for a promotion, accept the promotion, write your resume, polish your resume, apply for your dream job, take on a job you enjoy, open your own business.
• Physical: Exercise daily, take walks, eat healthily, have your annual exam, visit the dentist, take prescribed medications, avoid drugs and alcohol, sleep 7 to 9 hoursSee the doctor when you feel unwell.
• Social: Catch up with friends and family, stay in touch with old friends, volunteer, go out, have fun, use social media healthily, stay positiveuse technology when distance is a factor, have a good laugh.
• Spiritual: Meditate, pray, reflect, practice yoga, visit a meaningful site, do good to others, practice mindfulnessconsider your higher purpose and meaning, look to your higher power for support, love one another, help those in need.

Taking care of yourself is an important activity to do every day. This will lead to a better balance between your dimensions of well-being and lead to improved overall health and well-being. Life is precious and we must enjoy it.

Dr. Matt Glowiak is a clinical faculty member at Southern New Hampshire University with over a decade of experience in mental health counseling.