Reasons Why You Should Treat Yourself Today
There’s more to the whole "treat yo’self" idea than just a fun phrase. In years past, treating yourself might have been viewed as opulent and self-indulgent. However, recent research proves that there is a variety of health – mental and physical – benefits of making time for a little self-care. In fact, depriving yourself of such care and the occasional indulgence can lead to mental health issues, including depression, and contribute to an increased risk of certain lifestyle diseases. If you’ve ever needed a good reason to book that weekend getaway or call in sick for that mental health day, then here are five health benefits that will back you up.
Relax With A Stress-Free Spa Day
Stress is a significant contributor to mental and physical health issues. Allowing yourself a little pampering with a stress-relieving massage and a relaxing spa day can help reduce your stress level and manage your anxiety. In fact, research actually establishes a connection between the frequency of spa visits and better sleep, fewer sick days, reduced absenteeism, and fewer hospitalizations.
Massage therapy stimulates lymph flow and improves immune function. Not only that, but better lymph flow naturally eliminates metabolic waste, toxins, and bacteria from the muscles. These benefits work together to reduce muscle soreness and fight off disease, which is enough of a benefit to warrant treating yourself now and then.
Take Time To Enjoy Your Favorite Hobby
Most individuals these days think they’re too busy for hobbies. No matter how busy you are, though, you can afford to treat yourself to a hobby. There are a variety of benefits to having a hobby in which you regularly indulge in. Enjoying a hobby not only improves your mental health, but also helps you better manage the extra time that you do have and prioritize what is important to you. A hobby also helps you establish social connections with others, have a richer self-identity, and overall improve your self-esteem.
Hobbies can also help improve your mental health by encouraging you to cope with your stress in more constructive ways. Rather than sitting down to the distraction of a TV program, you’ll be able to channel your focus into an activity like playing a sport or instrument, painting, or rock climbing. This type of focus is vital for helping you recognize your strengths and weaknesses, as there is more to your self-worth than just one facet.
