IMAGE: unsplash

Self-care can sometimes feel like a “buzzword” nowadays, especially in a post-pandemic world. It’s not a  marketing ploy, but a necessity, especially when it comes to reducing health and wellness risks in your life. 

Accessible self-care is easier than you might think and can become a part of your daily routine. It isn’t selfish and it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or lavish in any way. Rather, small acts of self-care can end up making the biggest difference in how you feel. 

Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition already or you just want to feel better and prioritize your well-being, let’s take a look at some of the most accessible forms of self-care you can start implementing into your life right away.

Common Health and Wellness Concerns

Nearly everyone will experience some type of health issue in their lives. Some people have to deal with more than others, but no one gets away with a completely pain-free or illness-free life forever. While some medical conditions aren’t always preventable, there are ways to take care of yourself that can drastically reduce your risk of getting sick or injured. 

Where you live can have a lot to do with your health. For instance, individuals living in rural areas may experience different health concerns  than those in urban areas. Rural Americans are often at a greater risk of: 

• Chronic health conditions;
• Obesity;
• Physical limitations.

Rural populations often have less access to immediate healthcare and more leisure time than people in urban populations. No matter where you live, self-care is important, but it can be even more crucial when you don’t have medical providers nearby.

Taking Care of Your Physical Health

There are misconceptions that self-care means going to a spa or taking a long vacation. But there are more accessible ways you can make it a part of your everyday life and improve your physical health in the process. 

By making self-care practices part of your daily routine, you’re more likely to stick with them. For example, when you wake up in the morning, start your day off with some simple stretches. You’ll get your blood flowing, feel energized faster, and reduce your risk of pulling a muscle or straining something. 

Start and end your day with a healthy skincare routine. Not only will it give you a “glow,” but it can improve the elasticity of your skin and even help with your self-esteem. A simple daily skincare routine should include things like: 

• Cleansing;
• Exfoliating;
• Using toner;
• Moisturizing;
• Using eye cream.

Making exercise or some type of physical activity a part of your routine each day doesn’t have to be complicated. Walk around the neighborhood. Take a dance class. Join a local sports team and play like you’re a kid again. 

An added bonus to physical activity is that it can improve your sleep health. Getting enough sleep is another fantastic form of self-care. You’re less likely to get sick, you’ll have more energy, and you’ll reduce your risk of serious health issues like diabetes. 

Managing Your Mental Wellness

Self-care is about so much more than taking care of your body. While things like exercise and healthy eating are great for your well-being, there are different types of self-care designed to reduce stress, improve your relationship, and make it easier to manage your mental health. Many of these self-care practices are fantastic for improving your quality of life and boosting your chances of staying healthy every day. 

So, what can you do to take care of your mental health each day? Don’t overcomplicate it. Think of small things that reduce your stress and improve your mood. Some of the best “small” actions you can take to get started include: 

• Spending time with family and friends;
• Starting a new hobby;
• Journaling;
• Practicing mindfulness;
• Meditating or practicing yoga.

Many of the ways you care for your physical health will also give your mental health a boost, like getting enough sleep and staying active. However, your mental health can also impact your physical health. Poor mental health can reduce your sleep quality, destroy your motivation, and might even accelerate the symptoms of chronic disease. If you find that you’re struggling with your mental well-being, talking to a counselor or therapist can also be considered a healthy form of self-care. 

As you can see, none of the self-care suggestions listed here have to take a lot of time or effort. These are things you can turn into everyday habits. The more you prioritize them, the better you’ll feel, and you’ll be able to mitigate some common health and wellness risks simply by choosing to take care of yourself from the inside out.