5 Self Care Tips For Women of All Ages

Many women don’t realize the importance of self care in their everyday life. The act of self care is providing for one’s self by one’s self. It can be very difficult to do, however, given that it involves understanding who you are and identifying your own needs. So often, you can get caught up in caring about the well-being of your family, significant other or those who seriously impact your life in some way or another — making it almost impossible to think about oneself. Here are some ways that you can clear your mind and reflect on your goals, priorities and self-esteem now and in the future.

Sleep is Crucial

For most adult women, especially mothers, sleep is a hard thing to come by. Lack of sleep can lead to increased fatigue, elevated stress levels, and has been linked to depression as well as heart disease. A recent study done by the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIH), found that depression was nearly 40-times higher in women, and men, who have trouble sleeping.

Without adequate rest each night, our bodies are unable to cope with the daily wear and tear of our busy schedules and stressful lives. Creating and adhering to a sleep schedule will help make getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night much easier. Laying in bed for the night at a standardized time can also be helpful to get your body into a routine.

Cut the Caffeine

By eliminating caffeine from your diet, you can save yourself an enormous amount of energy, and help control your daily calorie intake as well. Having too much of it can not only cause jitteriness, but add to your stress levels and overall anxiety throughout the day. Some have even said they are dependent on caffeine to get them through their busy work schedule.

Sugar and caffeine can adversely affect your body and overall health. And it is in more than just coffee — soda, juice and energy drinks all have high levels of calories, sugar and caffeine that every person can do without. Consult with your doctor if you feel your health has deteriorated or declined as a result of excess caffeine consumption.

Drink Alcohol in Moderation

Although it may seem like a common practice for co-workers and friends to have a few drinks at the bar after work or even have to have a couple glasses of wine at home, don’t make this a habit. It may be a nice way to unwind, but letting your body become accustomed to consistent alcohol consumption can damage your body in more ways than one. It can also keep you from falling asleep or staying asleep.

Going to a happy hour once and awhile won’t hurt, but limiting your alcohol consumption can drastically benefit stamina, limit fatigue and prevent excess weight gain.

Don’t Neglect Your Beauty Regimen

Taking care of yourself also means physically caring for your skin, hair and general hygiene. Setting time aside each morning to prep for the day can not only make you feel more confident, but it can improve your self-esteem as well. To help keep skin looking vibrant and vivacious, try using face masks regularly, as well as a treatment to help control acne.

Likewise, your hair needs constant upkeep to keep it healthy. Avoid washing your hair on a daily basis, and when you do wash it, make sure to use a high-quality shampoo and conditioner that will strengthen and improve hair growth. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to a day at the salon to help calm your stress, if only for a few hours, and feel better about yourself.

Don’t Forget to Stand/Walk

Consistently stepping away from your desk or standing while doing work is recommended for anyone who has an office job or stays seated for long periods of time. Once every 1-2 hours is adequate in order to keep the blood flowing in your lower extremities and keep you from becoming stagnant or fatigued. Stretch, walk around the office, or go outside to get fresh air. Any physical activity can help prevent major health difficulties in the long-term and keep you from developing a sedentary lifestyle.

Those who spend all day sitting at work tend to do the same once they are off the clock. Take time out of your day to go for a walk outside, run on the treadmill or do yoga to calm your nerves and improve your breathing. It may make you more productive during the day as well!

You should try to find time for yourself often, as the daily stresses of life can sometimes be overwhelming. Make strides to worry about your mental and physical health, even if that means sacrificing the needs of others or your social life. It can help your self-confidence, make you genuinely happier and more energized, and most of all, create a healthier life for yourself. Don’t be afraid to worry about you.