You may think of self-care as being all about the perfect diet and supplements, but the reality is that practicing self-care also requires self-reflection and internal motivation. The most important part of this process is for you to find actions that work for you, not necessarily anyone else. During stressful times, it can be critical to check in with yourself every day.
If you’re looking to improve your overall well-being, you can develop your own daily wellness check. Check out these five questions to ask yourself:
1. Am I getting enough high-quality sleep?
Try to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Unfortunately, sleep isn’t something you can “bank,” and save up for later. To become your most dynamic self, incorporate sleep as a priority in your self-care routine.
2. Am I fueling my body properly?
A well-balanced diet plays a leading role in your health and wellness. Make sure you’re providing your body with fuel in the form of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, high-quality legumes (such as lentils), nuts, seeds, and wild-caught fish. Make sure the majority of your diet consists of whole, fresh foods to fuel your body well.
3. Is my physical activity a priority?
However you choose to exercise, make daily physical activity a priority in your daily routine. Even a short, brisk walk can work wonders! Health benefits of exercise include: reducing your risk of heart disease, helping to manage your insulin levels, helping to improve your mental health and mood, helping to control your weight, and helping to improve your energy levels as well.
4. How is my social health?
Having meaningful, interactive relationships with your family and friends can have a huge impact on your mental, behavioral, and physical health. Having healthy relationships can boost your short and long-term health, so be sure to reach out to your friends and family often to laugh, play, cry, imagine, dream, and just be connected with them.
5. Am I prioritizing my emotional health?
Stress can cause physical distress, which can lead to many major health conditions. A big part of your self-care checklist should be taking time to check in with your emotions. Are you feeling stressed? Do you feel hurt? Depressed? Sad? Regretful? Rundown? It’s a good idea to adopt some healthy emotional outlets. Whether it is reading a book, watching a good movie, or cuddling your favorite four-legged friend, find some activity that brings you joy and do it every day.
The Bottom Line
The next time you’re feeling stressed or rundown, take the time to think about what factors matter the most to you. You may want to prioritize exercise, put some effort into relationships with your friends and family, or focus on adding some good quality sleep to your routine. When you ask yourself these 5 questions, allow your daily wellness check to create the “best you.”