July 24 is named International Self-Care Day and this year’s theme is all about resilience, adaptability, and thriving in adversity. The date of 7/24 was picked with a purpose; a memento to remind us that self-care should be practiced 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This day is meant to be dedicated to taking care of our minds and body and reminding us to love ourselves. Here are a few tricks to practicing self-care daily.

Find Time For Yourself

Despite what social media may make you think, self-care doesn’t have to be fancy, expensive, or elaborate. Whether it’s an hour a day or an entire day, self-care is about making time for yourself despite your busy schedule. This may be one of the hardest because life is busy. We have obligations and responsibilities that make it hard sometimes to just have a little “me time”. This could be reading a book, taking a walk, or doing absolutely nothing. The idea is that you are taking time to do something just for you and because you enjoy it.

Eat Nutritious Food

Eating nutritious food is a powerful form of self-care that nurtures both the body and the mind. When we prioritize wholesome and balanced meals, we provide our bodies with the essential nutrients needed to function optimally. Nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, promote overall well-being and support various bodily processes. They enhance our immune system, boost energy levels, and promote mental clarity, enabling us to tackle daily challenges with energy and focus.

Exercise Daily

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. When we prioritize exercise, we give ourselves the opportunity to strengthen our muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance flexibility and endurance. Beyond the physical benefits, daily exercise releases endorphins, or the "feel-good" hormones, which naturally elevate our mood and reduce stress and anxiety. This fosters a positive outlook and helps us manage life's challenges with greater resilience. Additionally, dedicating time to exercise offers a valuable opportunity to disconnect from the pressures of daily life and focus on ourselves.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Getting enough sleep is a crucial act of self-care that profoundly impacts our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. During restorative sleep, our bodies undergo essential processes, such as tissue repair, hormone regulation, and memory consolidation, that are vital for optimal functioning. When we prioritize sleep, we allow our minds to rejuvenate, promoting mental clarity, concentration, and emotional stability. Sufficient sleep also plays a significant role in bolstering our immune system, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and supporting healthy weight management.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps us break free from the grips of stress and anxiety by grounding us in the present and detaching us from worries about the past or future. Through mindfulness, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our emotions, fostering self-awareness and self-compassion. Taking time each day to engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindful walking, offers a precious opportunity to reconnect with our inner selves and cultivate a sense of inner peace and calm. Mindfulness is an essential self-care tool that empowers us to be more attuned to our needs, reduce emotional reactivity, and cultivate a profound sense of well-being in our daily lives.

Celebrating International Self-Care Day in Maryland

Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to helping you be the best version of yourself through preventative care and support. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.