Healthy Mind Healthy Body Self Care In a Crisis

We all can agree; this is an unprecedented time. The crisis we currently face has left us feeling helpless, overwhelmed, anxious, and scared. With all the chaos and instability, we tend to forget the importance of self-care and instead, succumb to stress, which can wreak havoc on the mind and body. Rather than dwelling on things you cannot control, it’s helpful to focus on areas of your life that are easily managed. Read on for tips for maintaining a healthy mind and body while practicing self-care during these uncertain times.

Nourish Your Body

It’s a fact. A healthy diet is critical during times of considerable stress. Eating a diet rich in wholesome fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains fortifies the body’s immune system, lowers blood pressure, and encourages the release of endorphins in the brain. The body’s “happy hormones” like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, found in foods like strawberries, nuts, and dark chocolate, can boost happiness while relieving stress and reducing pain.

Exercise Regularly

The gym may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in a good workout. The benefits of regular exercise cannot be overstated, especially when experiencing high levels of stress. Increasing physical activity can enhance your mood, help fight infection, and improve overall health and well-being. And since social distancing has become the norm, getting outside for a walk, bike ride, or jog is the perfect way to work out while soaking up some sunshine and essential vitamin D.

Sip Away Stress

In addition to maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, proper hydration is essential to ensure your mind, body, and skin stay in tip-top shape. All organs, including our brains, need water to function properly. When you experience an emergency or crisis, the body produces cortisol, otherwise known as the “stress hormone.” High levels of cortisol contribute to several issues including high blood pressure, belly fat, muscle weakness, changes in mood, and weight gain. Staying hydrated can keep cortisol levels in check. So, grab a glass (or eight) of H20 and say goodbye to stress.

Practice Mindfulness

With so much uncertainty in the world today, it’s difficult not to panic about the future. But incorporating a mindfulness practice into your daily routine can help calm the mind and assist with the development of healthy coping strategies for you and your loved ones. Being mindful isn’t complicated. In fact, it couldn’t be easier. It’s taking time to focus on the present and being intentional of thought. Set aside a time each day, preferably in the morning, to pray and count our blessings live in the moment and cherish our loved ones this is an excellent way to make peace with the unknown and keep the mental chatter at bay.

Go on a News Fast

Nowadays, it seems like everywhere we turn, there’s an endless amount of gloom and doom on television, social media, and online news outlets. Consistent doses of bad news contribute to depression and anxiety, which can eventually manifest into physical illness. Although it’s important to stay informed of what’s happening in your community, we recommend taking 15-minute breaks throughout the day. Take a nap, pet your cat, read a book, or go for a walk. The news will be there when you return but protecting your mental health is your number one priority.

It shouldn’t take a global pandemic to practice self-care for a healthy mind and body, but there’s no better time like the present to focus on your physical, emotional, and mental health. We’ll all get through this together.

The trusted experts at Olympico Chiro Med Spa want to help. Book an appointment today to pamper yourself and escape reality with a mini spa day.

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