By Naomi Shaw—
Life is hectic, fast-paced, and at times, overwhelming. Trying to keep up with it all can make you feel tired, rundown, and cranky.
When the stress really starts to build, you might stop and take a break to pamper yourself once in a while. However, pampering isn’t something that should be thought of as frivolous and only done as a special treat; it’s something you should really take advantage of on a regular basis.
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Whether you’re working a full-time job or you’re trying to keep up with the grandkids, here’s a look at why you should make pampering a top priority.
It Reduces Stress
Stress can be a good thing. It’s how your body’s natural way of trying to navigate through challenges. But too much stress can be extremely damaging to your overall health and well-being, particularly for older adults.
According to Novant Health, the side effects of chronic stress can include:
· Depression
· Anxiety
· Fatigue
· Impaired memory
· Inability to concentrate
· Immune system suppression
· Increased risk of chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease
Doing something as simple as filling your bathroom with fresh flowers, turning down the lights, and soaking in a tub filled with essential oils and salts can reduce your stress levels and restore your mind and body.
Reduced Physical Pain
When you have too much going on, your body can suffer the consequences. Heightened stress levels can lead to depression and pain, which can cause physical aches and pains. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that sore muscles and stiffness are not uncommon in people who suffer from high stress levels, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, there’s an increased risk of developing chronic conditions that cause pain, such as arthritis.
Pampering yourself with a massage, a manicure, a pedicure, or even floatation therapy, can effectively reduce pain and significantly improve the way you feel.
Improved Happiness
It’s hard to feel happy and content when you are constantly over-extending yourself or bogged down with worries. You might notice that you’re snapping, you’re impatient, or you just feel angry at the world.
When you start noticing that you aren’t happy, take some time for yourself. Treat yourself to a day at the spa or plan a day of leisurely activities with your friends or family. You’ll notice a marked difference in your outlook on life, as you’ll be able to focus less on what’s overwhelming you and more on what matters most – yourself!
Weight Management
Managing weight can be a real challenge as you age. Your metabolism slows, so it’s a lot harder to work off those calories. Plus, when you are overwhelmed, your metabolism slows even more!
Taking some time to focus on you can actually aid in weight management. Try doing some soothing activities, like yoga or meditation; not only are they good for your mind and your happiness, but they can also make a difference in your waistline.
The bottom line: Pampering is definitely not frivolous; it’s an absolute necessity! Taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do!
1 thought on “Pampering Yourself on Purpose”
This, to me, should be every midlife woman’s focus. When you take that special time to pamper yourself, it proves how much you love the one you are in. We did an article on this very topic https://bit.ly/2p0Xigy