7 Life Changing Benefits Of Prioritizing Self-Care
It’s more than just reciting “positive affirmations.”
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What does “self-care” really mean? It’s about doing what it takes to make sure that you are caring for yourself emotionally and physically so you can perform at your best in all areas of life.
I believe that sometimes we avoid putting ourselves first because we feel that it could appear selfish, or that we’re high maintenance.
But, the truth is that you cannot pour water out of an empty cup, and if you don’t take time to refill yourself, you’ll eventually lose the ability to pour into others as well.
Here are 7 reasons why you should start prioritizing self care more:
1: You’ll live longer.
This article could make its point with just this concept alone. Obviously, caring for your health, focusing on proper nutrition, maintaining an effective fitness regimen, and practicing mindfulness in order to reduce stress, all work towards giving you a longer and higher quality life.
How, exactly, though?
- 2–8 hours of exercise per week throughout life reduces risk of dying by 29–36%, according to a JAMA Network Open study published in 2019.
- Eating a diet five servings of fruits and vegetables daily is associated with a lower mortality risk (especially heart-related), according to a July 2014 study published in The BMJ.
- The Journal of the American Heart Association found that fewer than 7 hours of sleep per night is linked to a higher mortality rate — so prioritize getting your rest. (Keep in mind that too much sleep isn’t healthy either).
- A 2019 study in Lancet Planet Health concluded that spending time in green space (getting outside) is associated with a lower mortality rate.
Needless to say, many other obvious benefits will come along with prioritizing your physical and mental health. You’ll feel better, look better, perform better, be in a better mood, and live a generally happier life (with more years on the end).
