If you’re a teacher, I hope that you are enjoying some much-deserved time to rest this summer. Even if you are working another job or spending time with your own kids, here are 5 tips for your own self-care this summer.
1 – Deep breathing — pause and remind yourself to breathe deeply a few times a day. If you have an Apple Watch, you may already get these reminders. But you can also set a reminder on your phone. Take a break from whatever you are doing and take five deep breaths. You’ll be amazed at what a difference this makes in your stress level!
2 – Stay hydrated — drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day. Try adding a slice of lemon or lime to add flavor or drink flavored water. You might also want to try a flavored seltzer like LaCroix or Spindrift.
3 – Get more sleep. I know that my optimum sleep amount is 7 hours. But during the summer I try to get around 8 hours. If you can’t get that much sleep at night, try taking a nap during the day, especially if you have young children who are still napping.
4 – Eat more fruits and vegetables. With all the yummy and fresh options available in the summer, this is a great time to try something new!
5 – Get some exercise every day. Even if you don’t do a formal workout, there are lots of ways to move more in the summer. Try walking, swimming, playing outside with your kids, or try a new sport.
Self-care is easy to put off but it makes the biggest difference in your mental and physical health. It makes you better at everything else you do. Try one of these tips today and see what a difference it makes for you!
Yes! Self care is important. These are all simple and very effective steps. I also like to make time for myself whenever possible and read. Whether I read early in the morning before my kids are up or in the evening after I put them to bed…I like to read self help books.
So glad you agree, Oneida! I’m a big reader too. Any suggestions for good self-help books?