The Importance of Self-Care While Working from Home

Feeling exhausted and stressed? Finding it almost impossible to “turn work off” when your workspace doesn’t change, and each day seems to move into the next?

For many, the dream of a healthy work/life balance seems like an impossible goal. These past few months have brought about a whole new layer of uncertainty, anxiety, and fear, which only exacerbates the angst you may feel.

In our pursuit to “get it all done” at work and home, it’s easy to forget that our well-being dips as our stress levels increase. If you are someone who stays busy in both work and personal matters and pays little to no attention to your well-being, you could benefit from taking a break from the daily routine to recharge.

Below is a collection of ideas to ease some stress, even for a minute or two, where you can find a moment to breathe and enjoy some quiet moments.

Give yourself what psychologists call “radical self-acceptance,” accepting everything about yourself, your current situation, and your life without question or guilt.

Get some Vitamin D. Get outside and take in the fresh air. Vitamin D plays an essential role in regulating your mood, as well as strengthening the immune system. Have a nature trail nearby? Even better!

Create a nook or corner that feels particularly cozy and include an assortment of personal items in the space, like your favourite books, a comfy blanket, a candle, and a houseplant. Use this as your own downtime retreat space.

Work hard to find a healthy balance of getting mostly greens and proteins with some comfort foods and some treats mixed in. Drink lots of water and challenge yourself to learn how to cook something new!

We all know that exercising is right for your body, but it also provides impressive benefits for your mind and overall well-being. Please resist the temptation of turning into a couch potato, which feels so easy to do right now, but deep down, you know it’s the worst thing to do.

Sleep problems are common. And right now, many are losing a decent night’s rest. Getting a good night’s sleep can improve your mental well-being and help you to manage your moods better.

Set time aside each day to practice mindful activities. Morning mindfulness can help set the tone for the day, whether through deep breathing, meditating, exercising, or only having a coffee while sitting there and just being in the moment.

Keep your brain active! There are dozens of ways you can help keep your mind sharp, and brain nourished. Reading is at the top of the list and very beneficial on many levels. When you read, not only do you get lost in the pages, but the act of reading itself builds connections within the brain that make it more active.

It’s OK to ask for help! Explore programs like Wellness Together Canada or your Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP), if your employer has one, and get counselling or ask for a referral to a mental health professional. Call your primary care provider or mental health professional to ask about appointment options to talk about your anxiety or depression and get advice and guidance. Some may provide the opportunity of a phone, video, or online appointments.

Above all, remind yourself daily that this too shall pass. Look at the bright side – literally, it’s summer, the sun is shining, and we have a lot to be grateful for now!