Simple Tips For Selfcare

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease can often seem like a constant battle. Battling insurance for coverage, doctors for medications, not to mention your body battling itself. We have to remember to take time for ourselves. As I always say, stress = flares.

Here are ten simple tips and ways on incorporating self care throughout your day!

1. Go For A Walk - Going outside always helps to quickly boost my energy and improve my overall mood.
2. Turn off Electronics - I learned this helpful hint from an IBD specialist. I was complaining about not being able to sleep and he told me I can start by simply turning off all electronics an hour before bed time. I must admit, it certainly helps with putting my mind at ease.
3. Wake Up Earlier - A lot of our stress comes from simply starting the day wrong. Waking up earlier allows you extra time to be productive or maybe even just time for a bit of rest!
4. Read a Book - Reading before bed actually does help put me to sleep faster. - (Lol, you can take this one as you want)
5. Join a Support Group - Online or in person, joining a support group can certainly help. Talking out your problems and being surrounded by people in similar circumstances may really help.
6. Consult a Nutritionist - I've actually been meaning to try this myself. Food is fuel to our bodies and if you've been struggling lately it may just have to do with your diet.
7. Massages! - My personal favorite. I love a good massage! Perfect stress reliever after a long day.
8. Writing - I love writing. Whenever I have built up thoughts and emotions I take out a paper and pen. It feels good to get things off of your mind without having anyone to question or answer to.
9. Learn a New Language -  There have been many times when I just get bored. Bored with my everyday routine, bored with medications and doctor visits, bored with life. If you're like me, this may be the perfect time to learn a new language! I think it's so interesting to meet new people and learn about different cultures. Education is inspiration.
10. Volunteer - Doing volunteer work is a great way to pass the time and get a new perspective on life. Working with those less fortunate, whether humans, animals or any other kind of creation, can work as a good reminder of how lucky you are and how much you have.

If you find that your condition or even life in general is taking a toll on you, I hope you give some serious consideration to the tips above. These are just a few ways you can help and / or better yourself in your spare time. Self care doesn't have to be a huge deal, it can be as simple as spending a few extra minutes sitting down or meditating on life. You can't take care of anyone else until you take care of yourself first. Always remember this and never feel guilty for loving yourself.