Self care and stress management are one of those things we know we have to do, yet it is easy to put off. Before I got sick with Lyme disease I used to be nonstop and burned the candle at both ends. Being sick for 5 years really halted this pattern as I could barely even get out of bed, let alone do anything productive. Now that I am in remission I am very conscious about incorporating self care to stay healthy.

I like to think of our energy as a bank account. There are withdrawals and deposits and we have to learn to save our energy too and not totally drain ourselves. When I work with coaching clients on incorporating more self care, I always encourage them to make a list of things that make them feel full and energized and things that drain them so they can start to be more conscious of how things are affecting their bodies and energy.

So What Does Self Care Look Like For Me?

Over the years I have learned what my deposits and withdrawals are. Here are some of the things that really help me feel good and energized.

Clean Diet

This one is really non-negotiable for me. Even though I am in remission I still eat super clean and follow a Bulletproof/Paleo Diet. Being Celiac really forces me to eat this way, so in a way that is one positive piece of having that Autoimmune Condition, but I really feel best when I eat the way I do. If you need help with some structure on how to eat clean make sure to order a copy of my cookbook, Wandering Palate that is a 28 day meal plan with all your meals and shopping list figured out.

Good Sleep

Somehow after stem cells I have become a morning person. My sleep was also one of the first things to improve post stem cells which is very welcomed after years of terrible Insomnia. I try to go to bed at the same time everyday and wake up naturally before my alarm which is a welcome changed from my past when my alarm would go off 5+ times before I would even start to wake up. Make sure to check out my blog post about 10 ways to optimize your sleep. I have incorporated all of these tips into my life and it has dramatically improved my sleep.

Support Your Body

Through the 5 years I was sick, I definitely found different modalities that supported my body. Now that I am in remission, there is no reason to wait until I am sick again to use some of these tools. For me, I like to get a 10 Pass Ozone every 3 months or so to keep my immune system optimal. I also get a Meyers or B-Shot here in there to give my body a boost if I have a lot on my plate or am going to be traveling.

In addition to that I also do some detox on occasion when I feel like I need it by using my infrared sauna or taking a detox bath.

Exercise

A few weeks after stem cells I started easing back into moving my body since I had not been able to work out in years. I started with stretching and very basic pilates and once I felt stronger I worked with a personal trainer at the gym that tailored to workouts to me. I have since added back in regular and difficult pilates classes and yoga. Find what works for your body and ease into it if you have not been able to workout.

Do Things You Love

This goes back to the idea of making the list of things that make you feel good and fulfilled. Everyone’s list will be different but for me this definitely includes spending time with my boyfriend, family and puppies, going to the beach, seeing friends, live music, travel, going to the beach, having a lazy day and watching Netflix or cooking or baking something yummy.

Last, But Not Least...
Stop When You Are Tired And Learn To Say No.

This piece is so important and something I really struggled with before getting sick. 5 years of Lyme forced me to say no a lot because I simply could not do anything. Now that I am better, I am much better at saying no to things I don’t want to do and establishing healthy boundaries with people and my work. This is such an important piece of self care and really prevents you from burning the candle at both ends. You don’t have to do it all to be loved and accepted. It is perfectly ok to say No, and yes, “No.” is a complete sentence.

What Are You Waiting For? Make Your Self Care List Today!

If you are ready to start incorporating more self care into your life, make your list today of things that make you feel good and try to incorporate at least 5 minutes of it into your life each day. Your body and mind will thank you.

About Me:
I am a Certified Health Coach helping people heal from Lyme, Mold and Autoimmune Disease. Learn more about my journey and how we can work together.

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