5 Tips for Summer Self-Care
By Brandi Goodman
Your mental health depends on self-care. If you aren't taking the time to relax, refresh, and recover from the stresses of life, your mental health is sure to decline quickly. With these five tips for summer self-care, you can be better prepared to maintain your mental well-being all season long.
Learn to Say No
Never feel obligated to say yes to all the summer parties, get-togethers, and events you're invited to. You need time to yourself to do the things you enjoy. If those engagements are going to get in the way of that, it's OK to say no to some of them.
Get the Right Amount of Sun
Getting some sun can be great for your well-being. It's good to get outside in the sunshine and soak up some Vitamin D. However, you need to be sure you're getting the right amount. Too much sun can leave you sunburned, dehydrated, and stuck inside for days feeling unwell. It won't bode well for your mental health.
Spend Time Swimming
Exercise is great for both your mind and body. Spend time swimming this summer whenever possible. It provides an excellent form of exercise because it targets all areas of the body without being harsh on your joints. It can also help your mental health as you swim or float in the water, letting your worries be carried away by the waves.
Keep Your Sleep Routine
Too many people stay up later than they should in the summer trying to get more done in a day. Poor sleep can be linked to declining mental ability. You need to keep your sleep routine and try to get to bed at your typical time. This may help you wake feeling well-rested and better to take on your day.
Be Kind to Yourself
It's easy to look in the mirror and see imperfections. If you wouldn't say mean things to others about the way they look, don't say them to yourself. You need to be kind yourself this summer. Don't think you aren't good looking enough to hit the beach in your bathing suit. A day in the water could be just what you need for your mental health. So go. Enjoy the sun and sand. Be kind to yourself and know you're worth it too, just as much as anyone else there.
Self-care should be a priority this summer. Maintain your mental health by doing things for yourself, even if it means having to say no to a prior engagement or taking a day off work to do so. You need a clear head to be able to make the best decisions and deal with stress in a healthier way.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clarksville, Tenn.