Life is a balancing act that can leave you feeling physically and mentally drained. But when you’re constantly shuffling between work, family, and friends, you may forget about the one trying to do it all: you.
At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, our team of physicians, nurses, and mental health experts understands how trying to do too much negatively affects your mind and body. Here are our top 10 tips on what you can do to take better care of yourself to improve your mind and body wellness.
Your annual well-woman exam is your best tool for getting and staying healthy. It assesses your current health and risk of future medical issues and also gives you a chance to track how your health changes from year to year, providing you with real-life data on what works and what doesn’t when it comes to your mind and body wellness.
If it’s been more than a year since your last well-woman exam, it’s time to make that appointment.
Everyone needs a time out, so give yourself permission to take a break. Down time is good for your mind and body. You may feel less irritable, anxious, and angry if you give yourself a little time to relax and rest every day.
Exercise is good for your whole health. It helps with weight management, keeps your bones strong, and benefits your heart and lungs. Regular physical activity also increases endorphins, which are the feel-good hormones that boost mood.
Eating a balanced diet is vital for mind and body wellness. Fill your diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups so your body gets the nutrients it needs to thrive. To fuel your body and your mind, eat regularly and limit foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt.
People tend to isolate themselves when they feel overwhelmed or stressed, but connecting with others can improve your mindset and how you handle your stress. Call a friend, join a club, or take a class.
Sleep is part of your body’s recovery process. If you’re not getting enough rest, your body can’t fully repair itself from the day’s activities.
Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Improve your sleep habits by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, making your sleep space cool and comfortable, and unplugging from all electronics an hour before bed.
Finding healthy ways to manage stress can improve your quality of life. In addition to regular exercise and socializing, you can try meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga to reduce stress for better health.
Dehydration zaps your energy and makes you hungry. Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and healthy. How much fluid you need depends on your age, health, and level of activity, but you should try to get about 11-16 cups of fluid (mostly water) a day.
Practicing gratitude changes your brain, improving how you think and feel about yourself and the world around you. You can practice by writing down what you’re grateful for everyday, taking time to notice the beauty around you, and letting people know how much you appreciate them.
Whether it’s talking to a friend or listening to music, it’s important to find time to do the things that bring a smile to your face. Improving your mind and body wellness benefits you and everyone you take care of.
If you’re feeling physically or mentally drained, it’s time for a reset. Let us help you get started. Call the Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, office convenient to you or request an appointment online today.
