Naudia Walton
Has your life been extremely overwhelming lately? Does your life feel like a boring routine of working and returning home? For this month, let us add some entertainment and self-care to our lives. There are eight types of self-care: physical, emotional, psychological, social, environmental, financial, spiritual, and professional. Which one do you need to focus on this month? Lately, I have been focusing on physical and social activities. So far this month, I have been working out for an hour and a half every day and eating healthy meals. Focusing on my physical self-care has greatly improved my sleep, allowing me to go to sleep earlier than usual and sleep better. Self-care helps to restore our welfare.
Since covid started in 2019, there has been an increase of 40% for mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Quarantine and the pandemic have added several stressors to our lives. We are learning a new way of living, which could be frightening to most. Change can be challenging, and many people struggle with change. During this time, we should learn the different self-care methods and utilize them.
Many lost their jobs, and some are gaining great employment. This leads to financial self-care, saving a little for rainy days. Cook your favorite meal instead of eating out. Meal prep for the week to save time from cooking every day. Budget your finances and write down when bills are due. Professionally, use your PTO and sick days. No more overworking yourself; your position is replaceable. Your life isn't. We collectively learned during these trying times that employers overwork and underpay their employees. There are jobs out there that are respectful of your time, body, family, and mind. If you haven't been able to, have some social time with family and friends.
Declutter your home and work area so you can be more focused. Make a doctor's appointment for a wellness exam. We can become so busy that we neglect our bodies; I am guilty of this. Grab a sticky note and write down a to-do list. I am very forgetful, so having a planner or setting reminders assists with not missing anything throughout the day.
Most importantly, take a moment and breathe. If something is becoming extremely overwhelming, step away from it and take a break. When in doubt, choose you. Your mental health matters.