September is National Self-Care Awareness Month -Time to Relax & Reflect

“Me time is not selfish; it’s necessary.” – Regina Hicks

Whether you call it “me time” or “self-care,” with the sharply rising level of stress and anxiety across all facets of our society, taking good care of oneself has moved onto the list of absolute necessities. September is National Self-Care Awareness Month, the perfect time to consider making self-care a part of your everyday routine. Whether it’s a daily meditation practice, a consistent workout schedule, or just an occasional walk around the block, it’s essential to regularly spend time away from the relentless pressure cooker that is modern life.

Stress. It affects millions of people every day and differs drastically from person to person. If not managed properly ongoing stress can negatively impact both physical and mental health and can lead to the development of serious health conditions including stroke and depression. The American Psychological Association cites money issues as a major source of stress for 66% of adults. For 75% of U.S. adults, it’s the threat of violent crime, while 34% feel that stress is overwhelming for them on most days. And, of course, work-related stress has grown into a major issue.

Whatever the cause or causes, the real problem may not be the stress itself but how we learn to deal with it and manage it in a healthy way.

The following are some simple things that can help you learn to be good to yourself.

• Take regular breaks. Make the time to give your mind and body an opportunity to rest and recharge.
• Exercise: Experts have long known that physical exercise reduces stress levels, lifts your mood, and boosts your energy.
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet is a proven stress reducer. And eating healthy also boosts mood and energy.
• Get your rest. Good sleeping habits boost health and well-being across the board, and keep you alert and focused during the day.
• Don’t go it alone: Connecting and sharing the burden with others, talking it over with friends and family, can go a long way to relieving stress levels. 
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing and meditation are great daily ways to reduce stress in only a few minutes a day.

With today’s fully booked calendars and busy work lives, making the time for self-care can sometimes feel selfish, like we’re putting others last. The opposite is true. When we’re recharged and relaxed, we bring our best selves in service to our families, friends, and yes, to our work. The success of every organization is dependent on people bringing their best and working well together to reach set goals.  

At FocusWorks, we offer specialized programs that help develop healthy productive executives and team members; strategically targeted and customizable training programs, seminars, and interactive workshops designed to break down barriers and build a powerful culture of understanding. We go the distance, with comprehensive follow-through that transforms workplaces, increasing productivity, improving effectiveness, and boosting your bottom line.