Health&Wellness Magazine May 2015 | Page 39

& For advertising information visit www.samplerpublications.com or call 859.225.4466 | May 2015 Be Good to Yourself: 10 Tips for Tiptop Self-Care By Annette Racond, Staff Writer How good are you at taking care of yourself? Most people (especially women) tend to focus on others’ needs and wants to the neglect of their own. Here are 10 simple ways to engage in self-care. You’re bound to feel good when you treat yourself like a VIP. 1. Chew Your Food Be mindful when chewing your food. Don’t just gobble it up without any thought. Experience the texture and flavor of everything you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Relish each bite. What’s more, chewing works wonders for your digestive track and allows you to get the maximum nutrients from your meals. 2. Just Breathe Become aware of your breath. Pay attention as you take three deep breaths. Feel your stomach rise with each inhale. Allow your anxiety to float away as you exhale. 3. Tech Break Take a tech-free break for an afternoon and hide your electronic gadgets. Take time to read, write (with a pen!) or spend time with friends. Take a walk or meditate. Window shop. Your voice mail will still be there when you plug back in. 4. Write On Send a handwritten note to a treasured friend. You can even make your own memorable notecards with a little glitter and some rhinestones. Let your friends know they are loved and appreciated. Everyone likes to feel special, so make someone’s day. 5. What’s Cooking? Putting nutritious foods into your body is a gift you can give yourself. Cut up a variety of delicious fresh fruit or prepare a colorful salad. Steam some vegetables. Eating well is a great way to boost your spirits. 6. Sleep Well Slip into your most comfortable pajamas and put clean, fresh sheets on the bed. Go to bed early and doze off listening to soothing music. Getting a good night’s sleep is a great way to take care of yourself, and you’ll start the next day off on a positive note. 39 sage or foot reflexology every once in a while. Indulging in the finer things in life is a good practice because you’re worth it. 10. Laugh It Up Don’t take life too seriously. Try to find humor in serious or even frustrating situations. We could all use a good laugh. So lighten up! 7. Crank It Up Turn up the volume on your favorite tunes and dance your troubles away. Whether you opt for rock ‘n’ roll, hip hop or jazz, there’s nothing like good music to put you in a positive mood. Invite your friends to join you for a night of dancing. 8. Get Moving Taking time to exercise is good for your mind, body and spirit. Take an aerobics class, join a Zumba group or sign up for yoga. Make sure to find something you enjoy so you’ll be more inclined to stay the course. 9. Indulge Yourself Treat yourself to a mas- MEDICAL CODING certification First, Oldest & Best 14 years - 800+ students The ONLY PMCC taught in Kentucky by Patricia Cordy Henricksen, MS, CHCA, CPC-I, CPC, CCP-P, ACS-PM, AAPC Approved ICD-10 Trainer Next Clas s starts July 22 ICD-10 CLASSES MAY 23-24 REGISTER NOW www.soterionmedical.com (859) 233-3900 e-mail us: [email protected]