Carve Out Time To Recharge
Many Americans face chronic stress from work, school, family life, or life in general. The National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) states stress can affect the entire body, causing headaches, gastrointestinal issues, muscle pains, insomnia, and decreased mental health. Taking time to relax and recharge can help counteract the effects of stress, even if it’s just five minutes a day away from responsibilities. Pursuing a favorite hobby, taking a hike in the woods, exercising, relaxing in a warm bath, journaling, or scheduling a monthly lunch date with friends can help you recharge and de-stress. If life doesn’t allow for taking extended periods of self-care, even taking five minutes a day to sip some coffee or tea and write down one thing you are grateful for each day can focus your mind on the positive. Just like you schedule work meetings and doctor’s appointments, scheduling time for self-care should be an essential part of your routine. Making the effort to carve out time to recharge and focus on yourself is the best gift you can give yourself!
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