By Devin Kyle
Despite the convenience and speed that personal devices and the internet provide, the world feels busier and more stressful than ever. Many people feel overwhelmed from juggling multiple responsibilities and trying to accomplish everything scheduled in their overpacked calendars.
Ironically, the solution to this type of stress is to carve out time for one more activity: your own self-care! By investing in your health and taking the time to feel more centered, you can minimize stress and enjoy a more peaceful lifestyle.
Take Time To Meditate
Meditation takes only a few minutes a day, but the payoff can be huge. By centering yourself and focusing on the moment, you can reduce stress and enjoy a sense of calm and peace. Dr. Jason Campbell describes the benefits of mindfulness, stating that it can “help reduce feelings of worry or anxiety by bringing your attention back to what is happening now instead of being caught up in past events or worrying about what’s to come.“
If you want to give meditation a try but aren’t sure how to begin, you’re in luck. There are plenty of free meditation apps that provide instructions as well as guided meditations to help you get started.
Elevate Your Heart Rate
While you may know that exercise is a healthy habit to form, you may not realize how many health benefits it can provide. For example, physical activity strengthens your muscles and bones, reduces your risk of chronic disease, reduces pain, and improves your sleep. Moreover, when you exercise regularly, you are happier, less stressed, and better able to focus and learn.
To get started, find a physical activity that you enjoy. Then, commit to exercising at least four times per week. If your time is limited, remember that even a short burst of activity is better than nothing. If you stick to your commitment, odds are high that the benefits you reap will motivate you to stay on track.
You should also try to sneak in movement throughout the day. For example, if your destination isn’t too far away, try to walk there rather than drive. And, if you work in front of a computer all day, schedule short hourly breaks to get up and move.
Connect With Nature
Make an effort to get outdoors on a regular basis. There’s something therapeutic about being in nature, surrounded by nature and plenty of fresh air. It gives you a chance to slow down, catch your breath, and bask in the beauty of the great outdoors.
If you must spend a lot of time indoors, make an effort to bring nature inside. Many people choose to replace heavy curtains with sheer panels or adjustable blinds so that they can welcome in the natural light. Also, consider investing in house plants and flowers. Not only do they add a beautiful touch to any room, but they can also improve your home’s air quality.
When life feels overwhelming, and your schedule feels overpacked, resist the urge to neglect yourself in an effort to get other things accomplished. By investing in self-care, you can feel your best and be better prepared to handle anything that life throws your way!
