Have you heard the word self-care? What does that mean exactly? Well it’s just as it sounds, pro-actively taking care of yourself.  This may seem simple but there is a lot to it actually.  To get to your goal weight it’s more than just calories in and calories out.  Learn more below about how you can practice new ways of caring for yourself on your path to wellness.

The Impacts of Poor Self-Care:

There can be many different reasons for poor self-care. They may include not being aware of the negative toll on your health and well being.  Also, by not caring first for ourselves we may impact others around us negatively, including those who mean the most to us.  Other reasons we may not properly care for ourselves include poor self- esteem, lack of commitment, or time management.

The Five Components of Practicing Self-Care

Physical components include:

• Exercising
• Eating Regularly
• Getting Enough Rest
• Avoidance of too much caffeine, alcohol, or high calorie “empty calorie” foods.
• Not smoking or engaging in risky behaviors

Mental components include:

• Avoid over-scheduling of time and energy
• Allow for regular periods of quiet time
• Awareness of personal goals
• Practicing positive self talk
• Knowing your limitations

Emotional components include:

• Allow time for play
• Smile and laugh regularly
• Have fun
• Give yourself permission to cry
• Express anger appropriately
• Partake in frequent periods of recreation

Social components include:

• Being assertive to express needs
• Allowing enough time for friends and family
• Practicing saying “no”
• Asking for help when needed
• Establishing a good support network

Spiritual components include:

• Taking time to commune with nature
• Expressing your creativity
• Taking time for introspection
• Developing and practicing a core belief system

Establishing the right balance for self-care within the described components is an important part of being successful at losing weight and keeping it off long-term.   By first committing to begin your weight loss journey, you are making important steps toward achieving better self-care and you should be very proud!

For more information on safe, effective weight loss programs in Lincoln, NE and Omaha, NE please visit our website at WeightLossNebraska.com.

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