Taking care of oneself goes beyond bubble baths, decadent desserts, and picturesque getaways. Real self-care involves taking some crucial steps towards fostering a more desirable level of physical and mental health to ensure a long and enjoyable life. If you need help looking for a place to start, why not begin with some activities that are backed by research to provide results? Read on for our 5 self-care tips and learn how to truly care for yourself!
Get Some Fresh Air
Spring has sprung, the sun is shining, and the birds are chirping! Studies show that spending time outdoors offers a plethora of benefits to both our health and mood, such as reduced blood pressure and heart rate, while also cutting down our levels of the stress hormone cortisol. A little bit of fresh air can go a long way, so get out there and explore the beautiful, wooded campus of Westminster Woods! 90 minutes of walking outside is all it takes to cut down on stress and negative thoughts while boosting health.
Spend Time with Friends
Humans are social by nature and that is because our brains are wired to release positive chemicals during social interaction. High-fives and handshakes are all it takes to produce oxytocin – a feel-good chemical in the brain that reduces stress. Furthermore, studies have shown that having close friends later in life may even help prevent mental decline. Seniors are at an increased risk for social isolation compared to other age demographics, so it is worth it to reach out to friends!
Work Those Muscles
Apart from the obvious physical health benefits of exercise, it is also proven to be good for mental health too. Aerobic exercise such as walking or jogging causes our brains to release endorphins, our body’s natural positive hormone. This is where the term “runner’s high” comes from! No matter what you enjoy doing – swimming, dancing, yoga, or even gardening – exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal. Exciting wellness opportunities await right outside your door at Julington Creek.
Stay Hydrated
Can you believe that something as basic as drinking water is proven to foster long-term health? Dehydration can produce headaches and negative moods. One study shows that drinking fewer than two glasses of water per day increases the risk of depression by 73% in men and 54% in women. Drinking plenty of water each day will help our bodies stay regulated while keeping our brains operating like a well-oiled machine.
Reach Out for Help
It is estimated that roughly 20% of adults over the age of 55 experience mental health concerns but this age group is also the least likely to seek treatment due to stigmas and shaming. The reality is that mental health disorders are nothing to be ashamed of. If you experience depression, anxiety, or loneliness, turn to a doctor or therapist for much-needed support. These experts have access to special tools and techniques that are sure to lift your spirits and get you feeling back to normal.
Enjoy convenient access to all the resources you will need for lifelong physical and mental wellness at Westminster Woods on Julington Creek! Our independent living facilities offer an active lifestyle without compromises. We handle all the maintenance so that you can commit your time to kicking back and enjoying fantastic amenities and services, such as our My W Life wellbeing program and fitness center. Westminster Woods is the natural choice for seniors looking to spend more active time amidst nature!
