Self-care tips for a healthy mind and body

BY DREW FLEMING

Multimedia Journalist

When you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you’re buried under a never-ending to-do list, learn to step back and relax. You can only do your best work when you’re at your best.

Self-care is vital to ensuring you are mentally and emotionally healthy. A healthy mind and working body allows you to maintain a balanced work and life relationship. If you’re struggling to relax or haven’t found a way to unwind between studying and work, here are some of the best ways to treat yourself.

Move your body

When you’re feeling stuck in your head and  like you need to relax, moving your body can help reduce stress. Get up and stretch to let out some steam. Or go on a walk — whether that be going to exercise at the gym or taking a trip to a local park. The Bosque River trail is a great way to breathe some fresh air and surround yourself with nature instead of staying inside.

James Paige, a sophomore kinesiology major at Tarleton State University, credits working out for her general well-being.

“Working out makes me feel productive, and when I’m moving around, it relaxes me,” Paige said.

Lean on a furry friend and enjoy some fresh air

Dogs really are a person’s best friend. Spending time snuggling with your dog or cat can help relieve stress and distract yourself. If you don’t have a furry friend at home, take a trip to your local humane society or shelter and take a dog on a walk. Those couple hours out of the kennel will benefit both you and the dog.

Autumn Carifee is a business major at Tarleton.  She carves out time to relax and often spends it outside.

“I really enjoy relaxing by fishing at city park,” Carifee said. “I love catching fish, it’s pretty fun.”

Talk to someone

Life gets busy, when caring for your mental health — something that is often overlooked is a simple conversation. Call a parent, loved one or an old friend you miss and catch up. That conversation could end up making both of your weeks. Staying in touch with people and conversation is the best medicine.

Another option is therapy. If you’re struggling with emotions or opening up about your problems, therapy is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and how you can grow.

Treat yourself to a sweet treat

An instant mood-boost is getting a sweet treat. Treat yourself to something sweet or a refreshing drink to encourage you. A trip to Starbucks or HTea0 is a great way to take a break from work.

After all, a full belly equals a full heart. For most of us, the key to our heart is something covered in sugar.   

Listen to your favorite playlist

My favorite advice comes from “Grey’s Anatomy,” which is to “dance it out.”

Turn on your favorite song and dance around to remind yourself what it’s like to let out some stress and just dance. Another option is going for a drive while listening to your favorite songs. Screaming music while in the car is one of my favorite ways to relieve stress.

Listen to a podcast

Expand your horizons — whether it’s lifestyle, true crime or pop-culture, sit down and relax with a podcast. They’re a simple way to take your mind off things and possibly learn something new.

Take a bath and put on a face mask

The ultimate self care day is one that leaves you poreless, moisturized and feeling like a million bucks. So fill up a bubble bath, put on a face mask and watch that movie you’ve been waiting to have time for.

This is the best way to go to sleep feeling rejuvenated and take a load off yourself.

Cuddle up with a good book

Sometimes, the best way to relieve stress is to jump into a new story. Reading a book allows the audience to take a look into someone else’s life for a few hours.

A book is the best way to distract yourself. Self-help books, in particular, are insightful and motivating, offering valuable guidance to improve your habits.

Abigail Middleton is a junior marketing major at Tarleton who uses books as a tool for winding down.

“I go to the gym — I really like working out… I read and journal. Reading takes my mind off of school and real life and lets me go into fiction,” Middleton said.

So, make sure to use these tips next time you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s essential to take time for yourself and maintain a healthy mind and body. Instead of sitting in the stress of school, life and work, use some of these suggestions to take your mind off your troubles.