Sometimes one of the biggest struggles we face in trying to manage our weight is simply taking caring care of ourselves, because it’s much easier to do it for others.
Here are some easy ways to make sure self-care is a part of your lifestyle that isn’t always hyper-focused on healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management.
1. Schedule Time with Your Loved Ones
You wouldn’t skip an important work meeting, so why skip out on spending time with your loved ones? Reconnecting is good for them and good for you, and it doesn’t have to be anything complicated. Pencil into your busy schedule a couple of events such as coffee dates, video calls, game nights, movie nights, or simply cooking a homemade meal together.
2. Try Something New
Trying new things can help you stay mentally and emotionally healthy. It gives your brain a workout by building new pathways in order to learn a new activity, so try switching-up your day-to-day and be open to trying something new. This can be as simple as cooking a dish you’ve never tried before or learning a new craft.
3. Laugh Today
Laughing can ease tension and stress, reduce anxiety and depression, promote social bonding, lower your blood pressure, and boost your immune system.
4. Remember Your Real Goal
Managing your weight about more than just a number on a scale, so recognize that improved health and quality of life, more energy, or greater confidence might be your real goal. Put a reminder on a sticky note in your room or make it a daily notification on your phone. Don’t be discouraged by potential setbacks – it’s an ongoing journey.
5. Make Time for Sleep
Studies show that individuals sleeping only five hours per night were 73% more likely to be affected by obesity. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night for the average adult, so make sure you’re catching some shuteye!
6. Focus on Having Fun
Just like laughing, making time for fun is good for both your physical and mental health. Go on a day trip or a vacation if possible! Spend time exploring around outside, go fishing or hiking, or go shopping. Let yourself enjoy some time that is strictly dedicated to fun.
7. Enjoy Non-scale Victories
Watching the scale go down is not the only measurement of success when it comes to your health. Look for more non-scale victories such as running your first 5k, feeling energetic, lowering your blood pressure, or playing with your grandchildren.
The bottom line is that your weight isn’t everything — and there is more to good health than eating clean food and getting regular exercise. Managing your health is about managing all its aspects: your body, your mind, and your greater well-being.
