Radfield recognises the importance of self care

For many of us, when we think of care, we immediately think about caring for others and ensuring their continued health and wellbeing. With busy schedules and juggling commitments such as work, family and home life the concept of caring for oneself is often way down the list. The term ‘self care’ itself can also bring negative connotations, it’s something often misassociated with selfishness or self indulgence, when in fact it is one of smallest acts of compassion we can offer ourselves that can bring big benefits.

Self care itself is quite a large umbrella term, but what does it cover? When we talk about self care we really mean things that can improve our physical, mental and emotional health that help us to deal with the day to day demands of life. This can involve anything from staying healthy and taking time to relax to knowing for example, when and how to seek advice from a pharmacist or Doctor to ensure a health problem is quickly addressed.

A recent ‘Self Care Week‘ campaign which was run by the UK Government in November really demonstrates the importance of self care, and it aimed to raise awareness of the role we can all play in helping care for ourselves. Self care need not be expensive or take much time out of your day, the simplest of activities could make a real difference. Here are a few ideas from Radfield Home Care Harrogate, Wetherby and North Yorkshire:

• Get plenty of sleep – Rest helps the body to regenerate and increase the overall sense of being relaxed.

• Me time? – Allocate a day of the week that you will dedicate some time to yourself – like reading a good book, walking in the park or watching a film you love. Perhaps you would enjoy #selfcaresunday

• Drink plenty of water – hydration and feeling at our best go hand in hand.

• Get help before you need it – Do you know the range of services that your local pharmacy offers or how to get out of hours help? – Knowing the facilities on your doorstep can help cut down long waiting times at the doctors and also give you a sense of preparedness.

The trick for many is to do something little and often, so that it forms a habit and as the saying goes, every little helps! If you would like to find out more about Radfield Home Care and the care support services offered, you can visit www.radfieldhomecare.co.uk or [email protected] or 01423 608 760.