Celebrating Self-Care Awareness
We all hear it from a friend of a loved one. “Stop worrying so much about me. Take care of yourself!” How many times has that been said that to you? Well, this month may be the perfect time to take care of yourself for a change. September is “Self-Care Awareness Month.” It is a time to reflect on your own well-being both physically and mentally. It is an opportunity for you to take a moment and put your needs first. How can you give everyone else 100% of yourself, if YOU are not 100%? It has been said in many ways: it is difficult to fill the cup of life for others, when your own cup is not full.
The idea of a Self-Care Awareness Month was created to help people become advocates for themselves, and to help people build a routine of self-care that exists all year long.
“So often elderly adults put their efforts into pleasing everyone around them from their own children, grandchildren and friends. They often forget to take care of themselves and self-care is so important to maintain good emotional and physical health.” said San Antonio Pride PHC Vice President, Andy Cruz.
Make Time for Joy
The daily grind and daily routine can sometimes be difficult. Even when there is not a problem in front of you, it can be easy to borrow one that has not occurred and worry about that! Instead of spending time worrying about things out of your control, think about those things that bring you joy and put a smile on your face. When you find yourself investing time in things that make you happy, those situations that create worry often become smaller and not so overwhelming. It’s amazing what happens when you find new and creative ways to express joy though hobbies such as art, sewing or music.
Why It Is Important
It has been said that being self-aware is your responsibility so that you can take care of family and friends. “Understanding and being self-aware can help an elderly adult side step serious health issues such as sleep deprivation, depression, and anxiety.” said Cruz.
New beginnings. Ebert’s Story.
Ebert is an older adult living alone. His wife had passed away and he recognized that there were significant life changes ahead. The work of raising a family and developing a career are now in the past.
In retirement, Ebert has discovered that self-awareness of where he is now in life is critical. He says that’s it is vital for him to find new purpose to getting out of bed in the morning.
Life is not just about getting breakfast and taking your pills. He realizes that he must engage with other people, and find new ways to contribute to his community. Ebert understands that taking care of himself is essential to continue leading a long and happy life.
Self-care ideas to live a better life.
Proper sleep is crucial to emotional self-care. Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night is best. So, make sure to get enough and stick to your routine, even on weekends! Good sleep habits can impact your daytime mood, and your ability to regulate your emotions.
Be sure to get some regular exercise. Brisk walks, a hike, or a bike ride can lead to better emotional health and positively impact your sleep routine. When you exercise, you’ll also notice that you will make healthier food choices as well.
Speaking of food, when you improve your diet you can improve your mood. Being self-aware of your food choices can keep depression and anxiety from ruining your day!
Don’t stay inside all day. Get out and get some sun. Fresh air, and sunshine can do wonders for the mind and spirit. Taking time to soak in nature can add calm and serenity to your day and help you sidestep stress. It all ties together.
Take the time to create new habits and new routines during this month for your own well-being. The more self-care you practice now will only help you and those you care about, for years to come.
