Why You Need To Take Care Of Yourself First

I know one of the major roadblocks for women when it comes to eating healthy and regular exercise and also for some men, is that they feel there is something selfish about using the time and resources to take care of themselves. They worry they’ll be using time that could be used to take care of others. The truth is, if you want to be noble and ensure you’re healthy enough to take care of others and they don’t have to take care of you, you should take care of yourself first.

People often put themselves last in line, but they should be first in line.

It’s not selfish to take care of yourself, especially when you’re doing things that keep you healthy and less stressed. If you spend all your time giving to others, without any self-care, you won’t have the energy to fulfill all the real needs of those around you. On an airplane, they tell you to put on the mask first, so you can help others. Staying healthy is far from selfish. In fact, it’s the opposite. If you don’t take care of your health with a program of healthy eating, adequate rest and exercise, you may end up getting sick and forcing them to take care of you instead.

You’re worth the effort.

Too often people feel they don’t deserve to treat themselves well. That’s ridiculous. Everyone is worthy of treating themselves kindly and believing they are important. Self-love isn’t the same as being self-centered. Self-love is knowing you’re worthy of love, from yourself and others. Being self-centered indicates you’re the only one worthy of love and attention. Remember the difference, it’s important.

When you focus on your needs, you’ll find eating healthy and exercise is far easier.

Getting into a routine of healthy eating and exercise isn’t easy, especially if you’re not in tune with your own emotions or what your body tells you. Part of learning to love yourself is learning to respect your own feelings and desires. Too often those are stuffed away, which include feelings of hunger. Learn mindful eating, enjoying every bite and identifying every savory flavor. Listen to your body. Are you really hungry or will taking a walk help relax you and take away the urge to eat. Are you really hungry, or are you thirsty? Drink some water and wait a while. Your body may be screaming for exercise and movement, but you’ve disrespected yourself for too long and don’t listen. Stop and listen.

• Don’t compare yourself to others. You are a unique individual and you need to honor that. Accept where you’re at and follow the path that you believe will make you feel even better.
• Learn to live in the moment and embrace it. When you exercise, feel the joy of each muscle moving. Realize how lucky you are to have the opportunity to make your body stronger and healthier.
• Get adequate sleep. Rest is important and something that our society dismisses. You need adequate rest to stay healthy and focused to do your best every day and enjoy it.
• When you need an emotional energizer, learn to find the best way to achieve it that works for you. It could be sitting in a quiet room and losing yourself in meditation, exercising or turning up the music loud and dancing and singing like nobody’s watching.

For more information, contact us today at Jari Love