Self-Care Tips for Better Health

Taking care of yourself is important. Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health.  Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact on how you feel. Here are some tips to help you create a sense of well-being and peace in your life:

Move more. Being active can help the brain cope better with stress. Regular physical activity has also been shown to strengthen the immune system, which is especially important for people living with HIV. Set a daily movement goal.  Walking, jumping, stretching, dancing, you name it – all kinds of movement is good!  Even just 15 minutes a day can help you feel better.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet. What we eat and drink can affect our body’s ability to prevent, fight, and recover from infections, and it can impact our mood. If you’re feeling unwell, eating certain foods can help you feel better. Try to eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains on a daily basis. Other healthy choices include fatty fish, leafy greens and nuts.

Get enough sleep. Sleep has a big impact on how we feel mentally and physically. Getting enough sleep will help improve your mood, brain function, and increase your energy to help tackle the day. Adults usually require seven to eight hours of sleep per night.

Make time for self-care and set boundaries. Take a moment to think about the best methods to move forward in your life and stay grounded. Schedule regular self-care time –time to do something that gives you joy and helps you recharge. If you’re feeling anxious, setting boundaries can help you feel safe and comfortable in your surroundings. Boundaries can include setting expectations around physical safety measures with family and friends or putting limits on certain activities.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to prioritize self-care. Doing so can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and create a sense of peace and balance in your life.  Vivent Health staff are here for you to answer any questions or if you need other self-care ideas.  Reach out today!