Make Time Each Day to Practice Self-care

Most of us experience some level of stress whether it is just once in a while or something that bothers us on a more frequent basis. If you want to know how to handle stress better, Dr. Shalu Ramchandani, an integrative medicine specialist at the Harvard-affiliated Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, recommends following good health habits. These include eating a predominantly plant-based diet, exercising on a regular basis, sleeping at least seven hours a night and staying socially connected. 

Another beneficial habit to reduce stress is to practice self-care, which is simply taking time out of your day to do something that makes you feel good. Experts recommend one of the top self-care habits is to practice mindfulness. This is as easy as taking 10 very slow breaths in and out whenever you feel stressed. Another technique is to picture yourself in a favorite, peaceful place like the beach or quiet woodland. 

Self-care habits can include taking a walk out in nature, practicing yoga, taking a bath or doing some stretches before bedtime. Some people feel a sense of calm using aromatherapy with scents known to be calming like lavender, rose, bergamot and frankincense. Lighting a room using candles or getting a massage can also be effective. 

Research finds watching a movie or an episode of a comedy show that makes us laugh can additionally reduce our stress hormones. For others, listening to soothing music may be calming. If coffee or caffeinated drinks make you feel jittery or anxious, cut back and replace with decaffeinated substitutes or drink water or natural fruit juices. If nothing seems to help, and your stress and anxiety levels are not improving, consult your healthcare provider.  

MorningStar at Laurelhurst assisted living and memory care community provides senior care and hospitality services as well as an array of luxury amenities. To encourage residents to stay engaged physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially, we offer a complement of wellness programs and activities. Contact us to learn more about the newest assisted living Portland offers and to schedule a tour. We would love to meet you and your family.