Self Care: a Critical Aspect of Holistic Health

At Avista Adventist Hospital we care about the health and wellness of our patients and the surrounding communities we serve.

As we enter the dog days of summer, our schedules can become hectic and even a little crazy. The stress of trying to keep up with everyday life can tire out even the most organized person. One way to help keep you healthy, and be stronger mentally, physically, and emotionally is through self care.

Never underestimate the importance of a good morning routine. By establishing a morning routine, you can decrease your stress levels, brighten your mood, and have more energy throughout the day. Simple routines like; meditation, daily affirmations, or yoga can get your day started on the right foot. Morning routines are not about adding more to your to-do list, but about getting into the right state of mind to stimulate your brain for a productive day ahead.

There are also the benefits of a little ‘me time’ that self care provides but we often neglect. If we are busy running around taking care of others, eventually we can burn out, but if we take time for ourselves, we will feel less stressed and enjoy life’s little moments. A sunset walk, scheduled monthly massage, or simply catching up with a friend over coffee helps our brains unplug and unwind. Me time can help us relax, refocus, and remind ourselves why it’s important to push ourselves to the top of the priority list.

There will be times when stress builds, sleep starts to be disrupted, and you get that drowning feeling like you will never catch up. It’s in these moments that you need to practice self care for your mind and body. Taking deep slow breaths can ease your stress response and sooth your nervous system. Exercise can also be a powerful stress reliever. Yoga or going on a hike can help with focus and clear your mind.

At Avista Adventist Hospital, we want to remind you that even though we will always have stressors in our lives, by practicing some self care, we can find ways of relaxing our whole self – mind, body, and soul.