5 Practical Ways to Turn Down for National Self-Care Day
Turn-up culture is alive and thriving. From post-work happy hours to Sunday Fundays in the South and day party mania from coast to coast, there is no shortage of reasons to be outside. With summer right around the corner, it seems as though we are upon the most lit of them all.
Still, in a day of nonstop hustle trying to check off goals, burnout is at an all-time high.
In 2021, 79% of American employees had experienced a form of stress while on the job. Employees surveyed by the American Psychological Association also suffered from cognitive weariness, emotional exhaustion, lack of interest, motivation, or energy, and lack of effort at work. With the desire to be everywhere all at once, it can be difficult to suspend some things for a moment to wind down to prioritize yourself.
As we celebrate National Self-Care Day, here are five ways to reintroduce yourself to you.
Enjoy a digital detox.
Whether you choose to totally power down your gadgets or you opt to put your phone on DND, a pause from technology can be beneficial.
Multiple studies show that taking a beat from technology can support your mental health, and can reduce stress.
A break from screens can also promote physical health including the eyes and back, and can increase productivity in creative areas, as cited by Forbes.
Recess from your devices can also boost your confidence, while supporting your sleep routine, and can help regulate mindfulness.
Everyday Health recommends establishing "no phone" areas such as the bedroom or table when eating.
Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers.
We know you're a fine dime or the cream of the crop who can get these hand-delivered to you from someone on a horse and carriage, but getting them for yourself on the other hand is a huge flex.
From long days and weeks that seem to have no end, gifting yourself with something such as flowers or roses is a treat that can instantly perk smiles and senses, unleashing serotonin, as cited in Elle Decor.
Not only can flowers increase a healthy mood, but they can also ease anxiety and promote productivity.
Have an outdoor sun bath.
Spring is springing so that means people are outside! This is a great opportunity to reacquaint yourself with nature's natural light source, the sun.
Of course, the golden hour is perfect for selfies and stunting on The Gram, but there are more substantial benefits of being outdoors and that's the good 'ole Vitamin D from the sun.
Vitamin D can reduce inflammation while supporting cell health and the immune system.
It can also boost your mood, reduce depression, and can promote strong bones.
Still, don't go overboard with baking in the sun. Medical professionals suggest limiting sun exposure to 30 minutes a day, as reported by Web MD. Sunscreen is also recommended to avoid sunburn and to lower your risk of skin cancer.
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Reset during a nap.
No, for real. Gone are the days of romanticizing a no-sleep lifestyle. If you've been missing your Zzz's, sleep might be what you need to live your best life.
Even if you have to count sheep to get some shut-eye, sleep has been proven to support heart and weight management, boost memory, and can keep your metabolism strong.
Still not convinced? Not getting sleep can trigger illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes, as cited by UC Davis.
To achieve a restful slumber, limit gadget activity and avoid caffeine, nicotine, and sugar before turning in.
Take yourself on a date.
Even if you are boo'd up, taking yourself on a solo date is gratifying, and sexy AF.
So if you've been craving to try that new cafe that's on and poppin' or you just want to revisit your favorite joint that cooks up your favorite side dish, this one is all about you.
According to Medium, dating yourself allows you the opportunity to pour love and care back into yourself that you dish out to others.
As the saying goes, "You can't pour from an empty cup."
Spending one-on-one time with yourself can also foster creativity, improve your self-esteem and a renewed sense of individuality.
