By Ginger Clark, RN, Parish Nurse
As we approach and participate in Advent there are practical ways to prepare so we can fully experience this celebration. Let’s find ways to reset and resync our lives to be more in tune with the real meaning and blessings of this holy season. To truly receive the hope, peace, love, and joy of God, we must practice self-care to be able to absorb and be blessed with these wonderful gifts.
Self-care describes a conscious act you take to promote your own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. It is a “multidimensional, multifaceted process of purposeful engagement of strategies that promote healthy functioning and enhance wellbeing.” It’s important to evaluate how you’re caring for yourself in different areas so you can ensure you’re caring for body, mind, and spirit.
Physical care includes how nutritiously you eat, how much sleep you get, and how much physical activity you participate in. Also important is how you are caring for your physical needs- taking medications, making doctors’ appointments, and managing your health. Get your flu vaccine as soon as possible. Continue to follow best practice against the spread of COVID-19: wash your hands often, avoid touching your face, wear a face mask when around others in public, practice physical distancing, clean and disinfect your home and workplace, and cover coughs and sneezes.
Mental care includes spending time doing things that stimulate your mind: puzzles, crafts, reading, inspirational movies or podcasts. Be proactive in staying mentally healthy. Recognize and celebrate your own abilities and purpose and be flexible to change. Seek help when you acknowledge areas of vulnerability so you can create a good balance of self and relationships.
Emotional care helps us develop healthy coping skills. Include activities to help acknowledge and express your feelings regularly. We are more resilient and able to handle life’s stresses when we feel our best physically and emotionally. Taking time out to care for yourself can remind you and others that your needs are important too. This can also make you a better caregiver to others.
Social self-care is essential but often times difficult to balance. Close connections and relationships are important to our well-being. How are you nurturing your relationships with friends and family?
Spiritual self-care Are you engaging in spiritual practices that are fulfilling? Make nurturing your spirit a regular practice as this has been proven to promote a healthier body and mind connection. Advent is marked by a spirit of expectation, anticipation, preparation and longing. May you experience all that this season has for you!