As a result of changes in work and school schedules for many people, loss of a daily routine can increase anxiety and disrupt how we care for our physical body or it gives us an opportunity to make needed changes in our lives.
This is the second article in a series for emerging leaders to help you become more self-aware, effective, and resilient as changes occur in how well live and work globally.
In the first article, we discussed techniques that will help you manage stress and simply relax. In this article, we will discuss practices and behaviors that will help you take are of your physical body.
Let’s review 5 keys to caring for your physical body.
1. Water, water, water. The brain is mostly water. Drinking water helps you increase your alertness, fight fatigue and it is a natural mood booster. Health experts commonly recommend eight 8-ounce glasses of water or more each day.
2. Do you rest well at night? According to sleepfoundation.org sleep is critical to physical health and effective functioning of the immune system. It helps decrease stress, depression, and anxiety. Get enough sleep each night so that you will simply feel good and be ready for any challenges that may occur. Most healthy adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to function effectively.
3.What do you eat? Healthy eating helps us to maintain a healthy weight and reduces our risk of diseases such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and more.
Take time to reflect on your eating habits. Do you eat too fast? Do you eat too much junk food? Identify the steps you need to take to increase the intake of healthy balanced meals. In addition, take time to get recommendations on how to build a healthy meals by going to https://www.choosemyplate.gov/
4. Moving your physical body! Blocking off specific time periods for work and exercise is key. Take time, at least 3 days a week (30 to 45 minutes) of moderate-level aerobic activity. By exercising regularly, you can help keep your body at a healthy weight and limit feelings of stress.
5. Relaxing the mind. Some strategies to help you calm your physical mind were discussed in the first video in this series. Click here to view the blog and video.
Remember to take time to care for yourself first. This will enable you to be stronger and more resilient as you continue to grow and develop.
If you need additional help increasing your leadership skills, check out our training and coaching services that help individuals, groups and teams lead from the inside out.
Click here to learn more about our Best Self Journal. In this journal, you will create and follow through with daily maintenance activities. In addition, for 90 days, you will record your daily actions, what you are grateful for and your daily progress and lapses.