Why self-care is essential for health and wellness.

Of course, you are familiar with self-care.  Who isn’t these days!  As an Endometriosis Health & Fitness Coach, I often hear my clients tell me that they engage in self-care once a week or once a month.  Throughout my personal journey with endometriosis, I have learned to understand what means and why self-care is essential for health and wellness.

I am sure your social media timelines are often filled with #selfcare.  The photos of spa days, massages, and yoga, that people will do once a week or maybe once a month. However, self-care is much more than this.  So let’s first understand what self-care really means.  According to NIMH, “Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. “

“It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary.”

Self-care can help individuals manage stress better, which affects us both physically and mentally.  As a coach that works with women who have endometriosis, self-care is something we start working on immediately.  Stress can cause flare-ups of pain, a decrease in energy, delay your goals and so much more.

My clients learn to understand what self-care is, and how to try to incorporate it into their everyday routines, not just the occasional mani-pedi or spa day.  Self-care is a strategy that nourishes your mind, body, and soul.   These acts of self-love help improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being and move you towards your desired goals.  Let us take a look at some activities that can be self-care for you.

Self-Care can be:
– Scheduling your physical and dental appointments.
– Speaking with a therapist or mental health counselor when you need support.
– Exercising regularly
– Eating healthy, nutrient-dense foods.
– Staying hydrated
– Make your sleep a priority
– Practicing gratitude
– Setting goals
– Positive mindset
– Setting boundaries with people or commitments in your life.
– Saying no, and not feeling guilty.
– Have some relaxing, fun times with a massage, spa day, bubble bath, journaling, or doing your favorite hobby.

Self-care can be a lot of different things for people, so take a moment to think about what is most helpful to YOU.

Have some fun, and grab your Self Care Bingo.

Health & Happiness!