Self-Care Is Important Before the Holidays Too

By Donna Stark

If you have ever gotten sick during a particularly stressful time in your life or if you have ever taken a mental health day to escape the pressures of work or school, then you know. You know how powerful of an impact your emotional well-being can have on your overall health and wellness, don't you? You know that if the balance in your life is off track and if the stress of your daily routine gets to be too much, you can easily wind up with a weakened immune system and extremely poor health. That's why it is just as important to prioritize your emotional health as much as you do your physical health, and there couldn't be a better time to talk about that than now.

October Is Emotional Wellness Month

It's fitting that October is Emotional Wellness Month because October is the start of the fall and winter holiday season. Why does that matter? It matters because there is no other time during the year when emotions and stress levels run as high as they do during the holidays. Here are some great ideas on how you can disconnect and energize your body and mind during the next few months.

Treat Yourself

Whether you book a day at the spa or spend an afternoon at your local bookstore, treating yourself to a relaxing activity can make a huge difference in your busy week. After you let somebody know where you are, go ahead and turn off your phone so you can really enjoy the peace and quiet around you.

Connect With a Loved One

A quick way to reduce your stress and bring more comfort to your life is to spend time with a loved one. The benefits that come from the emotional support and love shared between two friends or family members should never be underestimated. And if you fill the time laughing with each other, you'll end up feeling even better! What they say is true ... laughter really is the best medicine.

Engage in a Hobby

Has it been forever since you engaged in a hobby? Do you even remember what your favorite hobbies used to be? If you do, get back to enjoying them! Whether it's a little bit of time each day or an all-day thing over the weekend, doing what you love is a great way to unwind during busy or emotional times!

Self-Care Before and During the Holiday Season

Before your life becomes consumed with the parties, dinners, gift buying, visiting family, colds and flu, and school performances, take a moment and treat yourself to some much-needed self-care. It really will make a huge difference in how well the rest of the year goes.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Citrus Heights, Calif.