Your essential self-care checkpoint

Your essential self-care checkpoint

Former World Champion and Olympic medallist, JAMIE BAULCH shares some easy reminders on how to prioritise your own self-care even as you continue to care for others.

As a former athlete, I understand the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being to stay at the top of our game. In reality, self-care doesn't just apply for athletes … it is for everyone.

The pandemic has made the role and importance of Key Workers very obvious.

While Covid-19 put a lot of stress on our Key Workers, more people became aware of their effort in keeping these vital services running and how important it is to show support to them.

From healthcare to teaching, and countless more on the frontlines, the contribution of Key Workers to society cannot be overstated. It does take a toll on your well-being and it's vital to recognise that your physical and mental health are incredibly important.

Getting energy to be energised

With countless physical and mental health benefits, there is no question that regular exercise is important. But, I get it.

Finding the time and motivation to exercise can be difficult for those who work long and irregular hours while dealing with the physical and emotional toll of the pandemic. So, how do we work around this?

It all starts with little but often.

Taken in St Lucia at The Body Holiday (click here for The Body Holiday website)

Here are some tips to get started in prioritising your physical health and reaping the rewards from doing so:

Set achievable goals

Setting achievable fitness goals can help keep you motivated and on track. Make sure your goals are realistic and achievable, and break them down into smaller milestones so you can track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.

Make use of your surroundings

You don't need a gym or fitness equipment to get a good workout. You can make use of your surroundings to exercise, such as doing bodyweight exercises at home, going for a run or walk in a local park, or using household items as weights. Be creative and make the most of what you have available.

Use technology to your advantage

There are many fitness apps and online resources available that can help you stay motivated and track your progress. From fitness tracking apps that monitor your workouts and progress, to online fitness classes and virtual personal training sessions, technology can be a valuable tool. I use MyFitnessPal (available here). I find it gets me on the right road to what I am eating and makes me accountable.

Schedule exercise into your day

To make exercise a regular part of your routine, try scheduling it into your day, just as you would a work meeting or appointment. Whether it's a morning workout before work, a lunchtime walk, or an evening yoga session, setting aside time for exercise can make it easier to prioritise.

Prioritise recovery and rest

Rest and recovery is just as important as exercise when it comes to maintaining good health and fitness. If you're dealing with high levels of stress and fatigue, be sure to schedule rest days into your exercise routine, take time to stretch or practise relaxation techniques, and make sure you're getting adequate sleep.

Seek professional advice

If you're new to exercise, or if you have any health concerns or injuries, it's important to seek professional advice before starting a new exercise program. A qualified fitness professional or healthcare provider can help you develop an exercise plan that is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and goals.

Find an exercise buddy

Working out with a friend or colleague can be a great way to stay motivated and make exercise more enjoyable. If you have someone who is also interested in getting fit, why not set up a regular exercise routine together? You'll be more likely to stick to your plan and have the added benefit of social support and accountability.

This is for you as much as the people who need you.

Remember, you're important!

Taking care of yourself is essential so you can continue to take care of others. Best of luck on your fitness journey!

About Jamie

Jamie Baulch is a former sprinter and Olympic silver medallist who won numerous medals in various competitions, including the European Championships and Commonwealth Games. Previously a member of the British 4x400-metre relay team, Jamie and his team brought home the Silver Medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Today, Jamie is a successful motivational speaker and television personality, inspiring the nation with his story of perseverance and success.

Olympic final, Sydney 2000