To say life is a little crazy right now is an understatement. 2020 has definitely been a year with challenges, and it is only April. However, with everything that is going on today, it is important that we don’t overlook the importance of taking care of ourselves, which includes practicing self-care. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland wants to share some ways you can start practicing self-care, as well as how self-care can help you better manage the stress going on in your life.
What Can Stress Do to Your Overall Health?
When it comes to being stressed, it can take over more than just your mood. In fact, it can affect your physical health, including putting you at a higher risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Therefore, it is important to learn ways to manage stress before it takes a negative toll on your health.
Ways to Manage Stress
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.
- Make sure you are getting plenty of exercise.
- Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
- Practice relaxation techniques.
- Consider talking to someone.
- Keep a journal.
- Control what you can in life.
- Learn ways to better manage your time.
Why Is Self-Care So Important?
There are a lot of times in life we do what we have to do—not necessarily what we want to do. Self-care allows us that time to do something we enjoy, such as reading a good book, taking a yoga class or getting a massage. But self-care is not just about pampering or relaxing. It encompasses any action involved in protecting your health and well-being.
Simple Ways to Practice Self-Care
- Eat healthily and mindfully.
- Keep track of your accomplishments.
- Express gratitude.
- Create a cozy space.
- Read a book.
- Get moving.
- Unplug.
Feeling under the weather? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Cleveland today for a medical evaluation. No appointment is necessary.
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