The fine art of self care

By Christine Boutross

In today’s fast pace world it seems too many that you just can't catch your breath.  We get caught up with work and projects at home and sometimes get stuck in tunnel vision, forgetting to just look at the people in our lives and smile, or lay on your back and daydream.  Living the fast paced life might accomplish a lot when it comes to earning a living or making your boss happy, but in time it will take a toll on your overall health and wellness.  A lifetime of stress, anxiety, and moving too fast can lead to adrenal failure, heart disease, ulcers, obesity (from all that fast food to go with the fast pace) and depression.

There are some simple steps that you can take to put just a little bit of self care into your day, and a little goes a long way! Here are some examples of things you can try:

Collect hugs during your day, either with your family, friends, or by starting new trend at work! Put a sign up at your desk advertising for free hugs.  Yes they might think you're crazy- but I bet some of your co-workers will cave in.  Hugging is like a quick massage; it feels good and helps you connect to those around you.  If your co-workers don't go for it, it will be good for a laugh and laughter is also good for your soul.

Get up 15 minutes early to get centered for your day. Before starting any of your tasks for the day, get yourself a nice warm drink, curl up somewhere cozy, and set positive intentions for the day.

Make your priorities.  If you are someone who has trouble sleeping at night because you have too much to do, make a list of three major things you have to do the next day, and three minor things.  Sorting these out in your head can sometimes stop the rampage that interrupts sleep and takes away your precious energy.

Keep a good stash of healthy foods around!  Avoiding the fast food trap will help you stay healthy and have higher energy levels.

Exercise at a level that feels good to you.  If this is new to you give yourself a little time to adjust and your body will start to crave it.  Exercise keeps your blood circulating, sweats out toxins, and sends a message to your body that you care enough about it to keep it going.  Make exercise a regular part of your week, even if it's a brisk walk around the block, or doing yoga with your kids.
And, slow down.  When you find yourself frantic, working late, eating while running around the house, ask yourself what is really going to happen if you slow down, let a work task wait until tomorrow morning, or just stop for a deep breath.  Chances are, nothing bad will happen if you slow your pace a little, but it will do you a world of good to reclaim some time for yourself in your days.

Christine Boutross is a certified Personal Trainer and a Holistic Health Counselor.

As a health counselor, she works with individuals who are struggling with eating healthy and living a balanced lifestyle.

Christine also does personal training privately and at NYSC. She is available for private training. Christine also teaches swimming and is available to teach swimming at Berkeley Carroll School.

Christine is offering a free 20 minute health history consultation to all PPTC members.

Please contact Christine at cboutross@verizon.net or 718 622 4198