Although the holiday season is the happiest season of all, it can also be one of the most stressful seasons. Not only are some people mentally affected by the cool, dreary weather, but also with financial stress of the holidays, stress of family coming into town, stress of earning that end-of-the-year bonus at work, etc. With that said, I figured I'd touch on the importance of self-care since some of the festivities have already begun.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST.
In case the letters in all caps didn't get through to you, I'll repeat for good measure...
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST.
Why should you practice self-care?
Self-care improves relationships.
Taking the time to decompress from the stress in your life will allow you to be present in the moment and lead to healthier, loving relationships with your friends, family, significant other, co-workers, and most importantly, yourself. Get ahead of your worries and start by taking 10 minutes per day to completely relax. Meditate, stretch, breathe deeply, whatever it takes for you to be in the moment. Once you find your preferred method of relaxation, practice it EVERY. DAY. You and your loved ones will thank you.
Self-care increases productivity.
When we allow time for ourselves, our productivity increases in all aspects of life. Focus on yourself every once in a while, so your focus at work and at home can be given equal and undivided attention. By doing this you will improve your rate of productivity exponentially.
Self-care enhances overall health.
When you love something or someone (yourself), you will want to care for it, treat it well, and nourish it properly, right? So why aren't you doing that for yourself?! Tell yourself you are amazing everyday! (Because YOU ARE!) Write it on your mirror. Write it on your fridge. Write it on a sticky note and leave it on your desk. Feed your body nutritious foods. Drink plentiful water. Eat foods that make you feel good.
Once you have the mental health part down, the physical health is the easy* part. YOU CAN DO IT!
*No, physical health is NOT easy, but it is much more achievable once you are in the right state of mind.
Don't put self-care on the back burner this holiday season and enjoy every moment.
XOXO
- Katharine Moustakes