Self-Care Sunday, Anyone?
Oprah was the first person I can remember who took Sunday off. She has always understood the benefits of taking a day of rest. She turns her phone off for 24 hours and she just enjoys being quiet and taking good care of herself without worrying about anyone or anything else. How would you like to begin that practice? Do you know the kinds of things you can do to take it easy and relax so you are ready for a productive full week ahead? Here are my suggestions for both your physical and psychological/spiritual health:
Self-Care for Your Physical Health
Plan your menu for the week ahead. Plan a week of nourishing meals so you are prepared. If you wait until the last minute, you are more likely to grab fast food or comfort food, neither of which will help you accomplish your health goals.
Set the tone for the week and eat light on Sunday. You can brunch without bacon. Whip up an omelet with some of the goodies you picked up at the Farmer’s Market.
Stay hydrated. If you’re tired a lot, you may need to drink more water. Try carrying a bottle around with you on Sunday to see if you feel more alert.
Work out. Use your time wisely and take a longer bike ride or go for a hike if you don’t usually have time during the week.
Sleep well. Start to wind down earlier than usual on Sunday night. After a good day of exercise and eating light, you will be primed for a good night’s sleep. You will be refreshed on Monday morning and ready to take on your week.
Examine your skin. Dermatologists recommend a monthly self-examination to spot early signs of skin cancer. Do it every fourth Sunday or scan a quarter of your body each week.
Tidy up. Cleaning and decluttering benefit your body and mind as well as your home. Catching up on housework will reduce your exposure to germs and cut down on anxiety.
Rituals for Your Psychological and Spiritual Health
Meditate and pray. Spend some time developing mindfulness and connecting with the Divine in whatever way speaks to you.
Express gratitude. Think about the things you’re thankful for and write them down in a gratitude journal.
Turn off your phone. Take a break from technology. Keep your phone turned off or muted for at least a few hours each Sunday. It can have a calming effect on you.
Give generously. Serving others enhances your physical and mental health. Do volunteer work in your community. Pay it forward and you will reap the benefits.
Learn something. Read a book or take a course online.
Be social. Hang out with family and friends. Visit a museum or go shopping together.
Find a reason to laugh. Whether you read the Sunday comics or you find a good comedy, find a reason to laugh. It will brighten your day.
How many of these do you already do? Did you get any new ideas? You can’t pour from an empty cup. You need to rest and regroup in order to go out there and give your best effort in the week ahead. Have a great week! Let me know how it goes.
