For many of us, life has changed dramatically and our world looks and feels very different than it did just a few short weeks ago. As we try our best to flow with changing life rhythms, let’s remember the small things we can do to support our mental, emotional, and physical health. Here are four ways we can practice self-care in these challenging times:
Get plenty of rest
Studies have shown that sleep helps facilitate important mechanisms in our immune systems, including some critical stages of white blood cell development. As we adjust to living with a heightened sense of uncertainty, some of us may need help falling or staying asleep. One way to help your body out is by going to bed around the same time every night. Create a routine for yourself, and consider experimenting with ways to ease into a state of rest, whether that means switching your phone to airplane mode, writing down intentions for the next day, relaxing with a guided-meditation podcast, or doing deep breathing exercises before going to sleep.
Be mindful of your eating habits
Practicing mindful eating habits can help you keep a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for fortifying our natural immune defenses. While the right diet varies from individual to individual, one thing almost everyone can benefit from is chewing more often. Chewing your food well will support your hard-working internal digestive organs and, in some cases, allow for a greater extraction of nutrients. Like with any good habit, lasting change often comes gradually. Start by chewing your food five more times than usual, then incrementally work your way up. You may start to notice improvements to conditions like bloating, nausea, cramping, or acid reflux.
Get regular exercise
While we are being called upon to limit time spent outside, what remains true is that regular exercise is beneficial for our physical and mental health. We can turn to a variety of indoor activities and workout routines, and, if individual circumstances permit, we can continue to go outside for open-air exercise. Studies have shown that even moderate exercises like walking can boost the circulation of infection-fighting white blood cells in the body.
Drink plenty of water
So many aspects of our health are linked to hydration, including mood, energy level, brain function, and physical performance. Recent scientific research is suggesting that, when it comes to keeping your body hydrated, the quantity of water you consume is just one factor. Ingesting water slowly, while taking in other nutrients like amino acids, minerals, and fats, may help your body better absorb the water you consume. Consider eating more water-rich fruits and vegetables and drinking water slowly during mealtimes.
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While we can’t treat you with our acupuncture needles, we’d love to work together with you to find the herbs, supplements, and routines that help you feel healthy, centered, and whole. Navigating this extraordinary new time together means exploring new ways to help ourselves and each other. We encourage you to reach out to us for a free remote consultation.
April 24, 2020