By Jennifer Scott, Contributor
Many professionals in today’s modern world experience high levels of stress and feel the need to work excruciating hours. And if you’re an introvert working in an office, spending so much time socializing and navigating office politics only adds to the stress.
Needless to say, overworking and undergoing crippling stress doesn’t do much for anyone’s overall health and well-being, and it’s easy to forget about yourself in the process.
That’s where self-care comes in. As an introvert, you likely get drained by socializing and need an ample amount of solitude to recover and recharge. Without taking the time to practice self-care, you run the risk of stress taking over. That’s why we’ve put together this list of self-care tips specifically tailored for introverts.
Don’t Feel Guilty About Alone Time
As an introvert, solitude is critical. It’s how you process the events of your day, decompress, and regain your energy. Don’t make the mistake of saying “yes” to people and doing everything you’re asked to do just because you feel guilty about saying no. This doesn’t mean to ignore the friends and loved ones in your life; it simply means to make time for yourself to be alone and recharge.
Regularly Review Your Healthcare Coverage
The quality of your health is critical to your overall well-being, which is why it’s so important to keep up with your healthcare coverage. Each year, review your plan to see if there is any additional coverage you need or if you can weed out any unnecessary coverage. It’s also wise to see what perks your health insurance offers, as each year brings new changes. Many health insurance companies offer gym discounts, nutrition counseling and smoking cessation programs.
Healthy Habits Should Be a Priority
Eating well and getting enough exercise are a crucial part of living well. This means making sure your grocery visits count and that you’ve got a regular physical activity you can turn to several days a week. When it comes to meal planning, have a variety of recipes at the ready so you won’t get bored with the same old thing. Look for simple fruit, vegetable and lean protein options, and include staples like whole grains to ensure you get all your nutrients.
As for exercise, if you prefer to exercise solo, try mixing it up so you don’t lose your motivation. For example, if you tend to run, try adding in some circuit training. If you’re passionate about yoga, take virtual classes.
If you’re going to be participating in an online exercise class, set up a workout space in your home to improve your experience. You can enhance your home gym with rubber flooring and a ceiling fan. To maintain a comfortable temperature, repair any drafty windows that could be letting in hot or cold air. Visit sites like Angi to find reviews, testimonials, and feedback on local window repair companies. Costs will depend on the type of window and repairs needed.
Make Time for the Fun Stuff
Is there an activity that brings you joy? Maybe you love to kick back and read a good novel. Maybe you used to run with a local running club or play pickup basketball at the park years ago. Or, maybe you’ve always wanted to try out knitting, woodworking, or gardening. Or perhaps you want to reconnect with nature; a day-long hike or weekend camping trip could be just what you need. Just make sure to take along essentials like a good pair of boots, cosy sleeping bag, tent, and flashlight or lantern. Think of any interests you have, and schedule a time for them like you would a doctor’s appointment or any other important event. Prioritizing the fun stuff will do wonders for your stress levels.
If you’re an introvert, practicing self-care is one of the most important things you can do for your health and well-being. Stay on top of your healthcare coverage and look into a healthy diet and exercise routine that can boost your health. Also, carve out time to do things you enjoy and spend time in solitude. You might just find that a little self-care can add a lot of peace and fulfillment to your life.
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