The past few years have been challenging for many people, and the elevated stress levels seem to persist. Researchers in October 2021 reported that depression rates among U.S. adults spiked from 8.5% to 27.8% at the pandemic’s start. Furthermore, a March 2021 study by Indeed found that 52% of American workers reported feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.
Hope Weiss, LCSW, tells TODAY.com, ” Self-care is the different ways we care for ourselves that lead to increased physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Self-care isn’t just for people with anxiety and depression; it can help everyone, no matter their condition.
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Want to get inspired? These self-care ideas will boost your mood and make you feel better – mind, body, and soul.
Taking Care Of Houseplants
It’s not just your imagination that makes you feel cheerful when surrounded by greenery. Plants are the easiest way to bring the outdoors into your home. Plus, taking care of plants makes you feel good. One study found that participants who had indoor plants reported significantly less anxiety and depression at the pandemic’s start.
Take A Look At A Childhood Book
Grab a few of your favorite books from when you were little, and head to the library or Amazon. It might make you feel better to indulge in warm, fuzzy nostalgia. Read away your worries as you curl up in a chair with a snack.
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Eat Something Whole And Fresh
Did feeling stressed and eating everything in sight? Eating something whole and nutritious might make your body and mind feel better. Self-care practice can be as simple as eating an apple between cookie dough bites.
Watch A Movie Marathon
Netflix and Hulu are great, aren’t they? Watch a few movies that make you feel good down to your toes for an evening of self-care. Don’t forget the comfort food and blankets.