Stress is something that unfortunately cannot always be avoided and when it accumulates for long periods of time it can deteriorate our health and well-being. It is important that we take the time to unwind and focus on ourselves from time to time. If we don’t, we subject ourselves to health complications and mental health issues. There is no shame in taking some time to mute the outside world and focus on what brings you peace. This is what is referred to as self-care activities. In an article named “Self-Care in Health” there is further explanation that self-care focuses on “risk reduction and disease prevention at the level of personal action.” Self-care practices vary from person to person but if you are unsure of what activities can help you relax we will discuss some ideas below!

1. Put on some headphones and listen to your favorite artist or podcast show

There’s no better way to tune out the world for a second than by listening to your favorite artist. An article from John Hopkins discusses how research has proven that listening to music aids in lowering anxiety along with blood pressure and pain. It also reveals that it can help improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory.

If you would like to learn some new information or have a specific interest in a particular subject then podcasts are the way to go! There are many different types of podcast genres out there so if you are looking for an alternative to music then listening to a podcast is a great option.

Sit back and relax while giving your ears an enjoyable song to listen to or let them retain some new information!

2. Go out for a walk

Think about the last time you were able to take a break and go out on a peaceful walk. It may have been a while ago so what better way to check off a self-care activity that involves nature than simply going out on a walk. Put on some comfortable shoes and perhaps pick a park with nice scenery or even a block around your neighborhood to simply enjoy nature.

Spending some time outdoors will help your body obtain some fresh air, enhance your concentration, allow for vitamin D intake, and reduce stress. You can invite your friends as well or if you have a furry friend with you at home bring them along!

3. Cook your favorite meal

If you haven’t had time to make a meal for yourself that you can enjoy, a great way to engage in self-care is to make your favorite meal. Cooking lets you focus solely on the meal you’re preparing while also being able to be creative with your dish. There are many recipes available if you are also unsure about what you would like to prepare.

Make sure you are only focusing on cooking and not trying to multitask as that may make you feel stressed and that’s the last thing you would want for a self-care activity.

4. Watch your favorite TV series or movie

Unwind by catching up with your favorite show series or re-watching your favorite movie! You can tune out your work/personal life for a moment and focus on the plot line of whatever you end up watching. This is a great way to simply enjoy some entertainment and be comfortable in your own space. Grab some snacks and pick out your favorite series!

5. Get a massage

Perhaps one of the most relaxing ways to destress and feel rejuvenated is to go get a massage. There are different types of massage options such as: Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and many more. They all have their own benefits so it is totally up to you to pick which you feel is best for your needs.

The benefits of massages go beyond just reducing stress as they also help with decreasing pain and muscle tightness, increasing relaxation, and even help improve the immune system. Head over to a spa studio and book a massage next time you’re thinking of a self-care day!

Happy Self-Care!

Hopefully this list has helped spark some ideas for the next time you feel like engaging in some self-care. As these are just general ideas, remember that self-care practices vary for everyone so if you can think of other ideas you would enjoy then go ahead and participate in those too! What matters is that you feel a sense of relaxation while improving your health and well-being. Have fun taking time for some self-care activities!

This post was written for Healthy Young Nevada by Abigail, an intern at Immunize Nevada.

References:

https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.pu.04.050183.001145?journalCode=publhealth

https://www.activeminds.org/about-mental-health/self-care/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/keep-your-brain-young-with-music#:~:text=Research%20has%20shown%20that%20listening,%2C%20mental%20alertness%2C%20and%20memory.

https://www.advancedneurotherapy.com/blog/2015/09/10/walking-outside-brain

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/massage-therapy/about/pac-20384595

Images:

https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/self-care-concept_7961702.htm#query=self%20care&position=13&from_view=keyword&track=ais

https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/relaxing-home-concept-illustration_6263623.htm#query=relaxed&position=9&from_view=search&track=sph

https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/boy-mental-health-with-flowers_25516223.htm#query=relax&position=1&from_view=search&track=sph