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Self Care
Mind and Body Maintenance can go a long way
(NIA) National Institute on Aging and (NINR) National Institute of Nursing Research define “self-care” as positive steps taken by individuals to either prevent disease or promote general health status through health promotion or lifestyle modification.
Since ancient times, self-care has been around, but the term developed only several decades ago.
The world we live in has changed dramatically, and because of the high demand and high expectations, our self-care may not be as concerned as we would like. We spend a lot more time taking care of others than ourselves. It’s a blessing that many of us are able to do that. Still, it would be an added blessing if we took care of ourselves along the way, not just when we’re not feeling well but also emotionally, physically, psychologically, and spiritually. Brookstone: Self Care Looks Good On You – Shop Wellness
Because of working long hours, kids, school, sports, unforeseen circumstances, and the many hats you may wear, don’t put aside one of the most important things – taking care of yourself. Find your “self-care” regime, create your dance and move to your own rhythm.
When was the last time you took time out of your day, week, or month to just do “YOU”. Here’s a checklist. Once done, write it down and put the date and how long you did the “self-care”. See how long it’s going to take before you do the next one. Try to make it a routine, if you’re not already. Challenge friends or compete against players from around the world in the online game Lucky Jet. Test your skills and see who has what it takes to top the leaderboard.
Self-care off a budget:
Go to the movies; therapy; hair/nails; travel; golf; attend a gym; treat yourself to a nice restaurant; go to a spa; get a professional massage; take a ballroom/hip-hop dance class; book a hotel.
Tip: Saving to help meet your financial goals is a form of self-care. If you haven’t, read Rich Dad Poor Dad and teach your kids the same at an early age.
Self-Care of Ancient hunters and gatherers V.S. Modern-day Workers – NOTE: This is only opinion-based.
| Hunters/gathererers in ancient times | Workers in modern times | |
|---|---|---|
|
Work |
Less than 50 hours a week |
More than 50 hours a week |
|
Sleep |
5 to 7 hrs. a night |
4 to 5 hrs. a night |
|
Food |
Plants, berries, nuts |
Pizza, burgers, salads |
|
Stress level |
Moderate |
High |
|
Exercise |
Not done by choice - came with their work |
Done by choice |
|
Medicine |
Plants/herbs, clay - things from the earth |
Prescription medicine, supplements |
|
Fun activities |
Singing, dancing, outdoor games |
parties, social media, online games |
|
Things hunted |
Animals, fish |
Remote control, keys |
|
Number of jobs |
1 |
1 - 3 |
Disclaimer: This is for entertainment purposes only. It’s not a complete list and isn’t intended to compare ancient times to the modern-day in its entirety. Maybe you have something you could add to the list.