Tune-UP Tuesday

Self-Care...An Essential Part of Your Life!

By Nancy J. Lewis, MS, SHRM-CP, PHR, RCC

As we continue to juggle the many balls in life without dropping them; we have to make sure self-care is an essential part of our life. Multi-tasking, managing personal and business relationships and navigating the winds of workplace change can be overwhelming. It is important that you are INTENTIONAL with self-care and you take time to rejuvenate, renew and refresh on a regular basis so you can live the life you deserve. What are you doing to make sure self-care is a part of your daily routine? What changes will you have to make to do this? Self-care is about making better choices because you decide to take care of you. Consider some of the following strategies for a life where self-care is a priority.

1. Start an exercise program that works for you and fits into your schedule. This can be as simple as a 30 minute walk in your neighborhood or local park.  You take the stairs instead of the elevator at work. You park farther away when going to the store or mall. The key is to begin even if you start out doing just 15 minutes a day, just do it.  Whether you have a health club membership or not, allow your creative mind to explore ways to incorporate exercise in your daily routine. This is all a part of self-care.
2. Start using your kitchen and eat at home more. We are working longer hours, running errands for the family, and eating out frequently. It is time to go back to basics and plan dinner meals for at least 2-3 days a week. We need to revisit what our parents and grandparents did years ago and cook multiple meals on the weekend. Challenge yourself to eat more baked and grilled foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, and add more fiber to your diet. Reduce your intake of fried and processed foods and commit to cooking healthier meals for your family. Your body will appreciate this.
3. Start your day with inspiration. This could be reading your Bible, motivational books, or whatever provides you with peace and purpose. The key is you must continue to nourish and feed your mind and spirit with positive information in order to grow and be the best you can be. Spend time with children and seniors as they both provide inspirational lessons to help you on this journey called life.