April is national “Stress Awareness Month” and it’s a good time if you’re a senior or elderly to take stock of your mental health and know how to practice self-care.
Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Mental health affects how we feel, act, think, make decisions and interact with other people. Good mental health is vital to have good overall health and enjoying a high quality of life.
When you think about self-care, think of it as playing a role in maintaining your mental health. Think of it also as supporting your treatment and recovery if you have a mental illness.
Knowing About Self-Care
Practicing self-care is taking the time to do things that help you live well. It’s taking time to do the things that improve your physical health and mental health. Self-care is managing your stress, guarding against illness and having high energy.
Practicing self-care daily can have a big effect on your health. Here are eight tips on how you can practice self-care. The great thing about these tips are that you can practice them at your assisted living facility.
1) Exercise Regularly
Taking 30-minute walks every day can do wonders for your mood and improve your health. Even small amounts of exercise add up. If you can’t do 30 minutes of exercise at one time, try building up to it.
2) Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy, Regular Meals
Staying hydrated may involve cutting back on caffeinated drinks like coffee or soda pop that act as diuretics. Eating a balanced diet low on processed and sugary foods can help you feel energetic.
3) Prioritize Your Sleep
Keep a sleep schedule and get enough of it. Blue light from screens can inhibit your ability to fall asleep, so lower your blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
4) Do a Relaxing Activity
Try relaxation or wellness programs or apps. These may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. If you schedule regular times for these and other relaxing activities, like reading or journaling, you can help your sleep patterns.
5) Make Goals and Priorities
Prioritize what you should do now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you feel like you’re taking on too much. Be mindful of what you got done during the day, not what you didn’t do.
6) Practice Gratitude
Remember each day things you are thankful for. Think of specific things. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind.
7) Be Positive
Challenge your negative thoughts or unhelpful thoughts. Don’t entertain them. Think of positive thoughts and things you’ve done well.
8) Keep Connected
Contact your friends or family members who can give you emotional support and practical help. They’d probably love to stay in touch with you!
Self-care that works for one person may not work for you. Find what works your and what you enjoy. You may have to try different things. These may not be a full cure, but will help you manage your stress and have good mental health.
Get To Know Bellaire At Stone Port
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Let us make the experience enjoyable for you! We invite you to schedule a visit and come out to experience the Stone Port difference for yourself.