6 TIPS TO FIT IN SELF-CARE EVEN WHEN YOU’RE BUSY AT WORK

We all know how important it is to care for our health, but what happens when you find it difficult to make it compatible with a busy work schedule? Here are a few ways to make it happen.


BY: TAYLOR WOLFRAM, MS, RDN, LDN

There’s always a period of transition anytime we’re trying to adopt something new into our lives, especially when it’s busy enough as is. When it comes to self-care and new healthy habits, they have to be realistic and sustainable. After all, everyone deserves to take care of themselves and honor their body’s hunger, no matter how packed their work schedule is.

Here are a few ways to do it with ease.

1. Meal Prep a Little

A little planning and prepping can go a long way; it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing! A little forethought and time in the kitchen can make weeknights much easier, and will reduce the amount of stress that food brings to your life. For instance, batch-cooking and freezing grains and beans can make it easier to toss together a quick meal.

2. Keep Snacks Around

The best way to honor your hunger is to have a supply of tasty food at all times. Outside of mealtimes, this means stashing snacks in your bag, car, and desk. Don’t forget water, because hydration is important, too!

3. Eat Mindfully

It can be easy to sneak in meals and snacks when we’re working at the computer or scrolling through our phones, but we deserve to take a moment to pause, check in with our bodies, and enjoy our food. If this is something you struggle with, consider making a goal to eat screen-free at least one meal per day.

4. Take Breaks

The best thing you can do for your well-being during the workday? Take frequent breaks! Staying hydrated means you have to get up and use the restroom frequently, which is a bonus. Use your lunch break to take a break and walk around outside. Fresh air, green space and movement can do wonders for productivity and mood.

5. Use Your PTO

Take a week off. Seriously. Long weekends are great and all, but a legit break from work is so necessary for mental health. If you can take two weeks, even better. You’ll feel more ready to get back to work by the end of it!

6. Stay Home When You’re Sick

We don’t expect our colleagues to come into the office and spread their germs around when they’re sick, so why do we feel the need to do it? And when you stay home, actually rest. Don’t have your laptop open the entire time. The same goes for mental health. Work suffers when you’re suffering, so take the time you need to rest up and get back on top of your game.

If your work culture doesn’t promote employee wellness or self-care, share your concerns with your HR department. Taking breaks, and using vacation and sick time should never be impeded.

Take the time to care for your body and mind, your best work is yet to come.

Adapted from the original article.
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Taylor Wolfram, MS, RDN, LDN is Chicago-based Registered Dietitian who helps others lead a life of compassion that improves their overall relationship with food, exercise, and their bodies.  As an expert in eco-ethical and vegan lifestyles, she’s passionate about helping individuals end their struggle with food and live an unrestricted life in the kitchen. Learn more about Taylor at Whole Green Wellness.