Photo by Eli DeFaria on Unsplash
By: Sheila Johnson
We live in a world that is always moving; it’s busy and sometimes chaotic. In the midst of the hustle and the bustle, it’s easy to neglect self-care. Unfortunately, it’s a vicious cycle. We try to get as much done as possible, forget to take care of ourselves, and because we forget to take care of ourselves we can’t operate at our peak, causing our productivity to suffer.
If you find yourself in this situation, you can turn things around, even when money is tight and time is limited. Here’s some advice for working budget-friendly self-care into your routine.
For the Under the Weather Days
No one ever plans to feel sick and experience symptoms that range from a runny nose to a rash, from a cough to an upset stomach. To prevent or lessen the symptoms that can get you down in your moment of need, prepare in advance by having a well-stocked medicine cabinet. Particularly in the COVID-19 era, it’s apparent how important it is to have the necessities.
We’re not talking about hoarding or spending a ton of money on goods, but you should acquire what most households need in one calendar year and spend what you’d spend annually anyway. In addition to having meds for the common headache, allergies, and coughs, you should also have some flu medication accessible. According to Fitter Living, a good flu medication won’t cure or prevent the flu, but it will help alleviate symptoms such as sore throat, fever, body aches, and so forth.
Move and Groove
Getting your body moving at least 30 minutes a day will do wonders for you mentally and physically. Physical activity doesn’t require an expensive gym membership. For a low price or no cost, there are thousands of online videos that can walk you through almost any type of exercise right from your own home.
Alternatively, you can simply get outdoors and hit the pavement. You can get a great workout with a daily walk or run, use your body as a natural weight, and work on balance and flexibility. You can also get some inexpensive weights, resistance bands, jump rope, and a yoga mat to make your own gym for whatever workout you want to do.
Clear Your Mind
We take care of our loved ones, work, pets, home, and potentially our physical well-being (i.e. nourishment, sleep, exercise), but oftentimes forget to take care of our mental health. Unfortunately, neglecting our mental health sometimes doesn’t come to light until the pot is already boiling over. To make sure you remain centered, here are some things you can do:
● Keep a journal.
● Mediate either on your own or through inexpensive subscriptions to walk you through it.
● See a counselor/therapist (many insurances will cover the majority, if not all the costs).
● Depending on how it affects you, avoid too much or all caffeine.
● Take time off from work (use vacation time and personal time).
● Find a calming activity before bed.
You Are What You Eat
The food you eat impacts you physically and mentally. Not only does food play a key role in your weight, but it is critical for your organs to function well, for your skin to look great, and to increase and maintain your energy. Additionally, too much junk food and not enough fruits, vegetables, and protein will result in brain fog, memory issues, and fatigue.
Aim to have the right daily proportions of fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, whole grains, lean meats, and fish. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive; you can save money if you shop in-season, stick to simple ingredients that you can reuse, and shop at the right places.
Investing in your self-care is not selfish or a waste of time. You will be your best self, more productive, and better equipped to help others if your needs are met. Some of your self-care will require payment, such as doctor appointments and vitamins, but others, like exercise and mental health management, are either low in cost or free. There is no reason not to do what you can to take care of yourself and make a habit out of it.
Shelila Johnson is a ZENthusiast. She makes self-care a priority now that she’s seen the consequences when she doesn’t. She found a routine that balances work life with taking care of her mental, emotional, and physical health. You may find more information about Sheila on her website at www.wellsheila.net.
