Self-care is a practice that is so critical, yet so many people neglect it.
Somehow our lives of convenience have become full of distractions that bind us rather than free us to take care of the things that matter most.
Without proper self care, our mental, physical, and spiritual wellness suffers. The good news is, it’s never too late to take steps to turn things around.
What is Self Care?
There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding this important practice.
It has become watered down to the point of a buzzword and essentially lost all meaning.
For some, “self care” has turned into an excuse to practice selfishness.
Others, recognizing the potential for selfishness, refuse to practice any form of self care for fear of becoming a selfish person.
This group generally takes on more of a martyr approach to life.
While a martyr may seem more noble than the selfish person, neither attitude is helpful to your overall wellness.
So, how should we view this paradox? It’s the necessary things we do to put ourselves first in order to nurture our mind, body and spirit.
By bringing a holistic balance to ourselves, we avoid extreme selfishness or extreme sacrifice.
In time you understand not only your own personal value but also see the value in others.
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Naturopathic Medicine
Wellness looks at all aspects of being, as should your self care.
While reading a good book or a relaxing bubble bath can certainly be enjoyable, these activities don’t focus on anything that may contribute to poor health.
Western medicine often focuses on managing symptoms. However, naturopathic medicine is commonly used to help diagnose and treat underlying conditions.
The doctors at Integra Health Centre provide primary and adjunctive health care for a variety of mental and physical conditions ranging from:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Women’s health and Infertility
- Allergies
- Eczema
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood Pressure
- and more…
They offer counseling techniques to address lifestyle management, nutrition services, botanical medicine as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture.
As part of your program, your doctor will recommend any lifestyle changes offering a positive impact on your overall well-being.
Massage Therapy
The benefits of massage therapy on your overall wellbeing are far-reaching.
Yes, a relaxing massage can be used to pamper yourself, but from a Registered Massage Therapist’s (RMT) point of view, their goals are so much higher.
Through their understanding of how to manipulate muscle tissue to achieve results, a skilled therapist can help you find relief through:
- Stress and Pain Reduction
- Improved Circulation
- Elimination of Toxins
- Reduced Fatigue and Improved Sleep
- Increased Flexibility
- Recovery from Injury or Surgery
Massage is excellent for improving circulation and mobility, eliminating toxins, and improving muscle health.
To address problems related to injury, chronic pain, and tense muscles, a deep tissue massage adds pressure and targets individual muscle groups.
Finally, prenatal massage keeps your body healthy during pregnancy and prepares you for childbirth.
Checking In With Your Physical Health
Taking care of your health should always be a focus in your self care routine.
The truth is, prioritizing dental care typically falls low on the list for most people.
But when you realize the amazing benefits of proper dental care on your overall wellness, you’ll wonder why you ever neglected it to begin with. With regular dental care you will find:
- Fresh breath and a clean feeling in your mouth
- A confident, vibrant smile
- Peace of mind that you are safeguarded from major dental issues
- Overall healthy teeth and gums
Dr Mansbridge has a team of doctors that will not only provide you with the regular check-ups you need, but a variety of other services, too. From cosmetic dentistry to surgical procedures, the experts can take care of your needs.
They will ensure you have a healthy, confident smile to help round out your self care routine.
Meditation for the Mind, Body, and Spirit
For anyone who has never started a meditation practice, it can be an intimidating concept.
Especially if you are concerned with doing it “right.” We live distracting lives.
In fact, in many cultures, living a fast-paced, seemingly productive lifestyle is valued more than living a gentle, quiet existence.
Without allowing yourself time to rest in occasional stillness, you risk developing health problems many people face today.
This is why meditation is such a key piece of your self care routine. Here’s how regular practice will enhance your life:
- Builds focus in your daily life
- Brings mental clarity and motivation
- Reduces stress by bringing the mind and body back into balance
- Boosts creativity
- Enhances emotional and spiritual openness
Meditation practices should not be dogmatic, but as individualistic as you are.
The aim is to enjoy the present moment, leaving the cares of the world outside you.
If you have trouble focusing or sitting still for long periods of time, start simple. If 3-5 minutes is manageable, you can gradually increase when you are comfortable.
When you notice your mind wandering, simply focus on your breath. This tells the distractions that you are in a sacred space and they are not welcome.
In time, you will reap the benefits of meditation as you bring rest into your life.
People of all ages and backgrounds can incorporate self care into their lives.
If you are seeking any medical treatment, it is wise to work with your doctor as you make these changes.
Safety should always be a priority.
With patience and commitment, you will see positive changes as self care becomes a lifestyle.
Hi, I’m the Founder and Developer of Paramedics World, a blog truly devoted to Paramedics. I am a Medical Lab Tech, a Web Developer and Bibliophiliac. My greatest hobby is to teach and motivate other peoples to do whatever they wanna do in life.