Self-care is significant at all stages of life but critical in "Elderhood." The body keeps score. The body will forgive our neglect for a while, but eventually, it sends out messages that scream do better. We are made up of physical, mental, and spiritual beings. In this blog, I will focus on the physical aspect.

• Eat Well and Stay Hydrated

Physical self-care is the most basic and important. Food and water provide us with fuel and energy. The food we ingest can be favorable or poisonous. The non-toxic foods low in fat and sodium keep us healthy. We were taught from childhood to eat from certain food groups. Eating well is about balance. 

Food makes you feel nourished and cared for. Along with nutritious meals, lots of water throughout the day is paramount. The body is eighty percent water so it is important to replenish the water. We can make small decisions on what to put into our bodies to make us feel good throughout the day.

Updating your eating habits to include more unprocessed foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fresh fruits is key to a healthy body. This type of diet can help lower your risk for chronic diseases and help with your mood and energy levels. I have eliminated all processed food (including flour and sugar) from my meal plan and my blood pressure and cholesterol numbers shifted significantly. I eat three weighed and measured meals a day with nothing in between. My heart and brain are enjoying the great intentional care.

• Reduce Alcohol

Alcohol often does not ease stress, it can actually be worse for a person's mental health.

• Get Enough Rest

Prioritizing sleep is part of good self-care. As adults, we need to get between 7-and 9 hours of sleep each night. It is important to get enough rest during the day. This might mean taking a couple of short breaks during the day so that you can maintain the energy level needed to be productive and active. Avoiding the use of smartphones, computers, and TV before bed can help you have a more restful sleep.

• Move Your Body

Physical movement is healthy for our bodies and our minds. It's a form of self-care that can boost your mind and clear your brain. Even a few minutes walking around your neighborhood is a great way to take care of your body daily. You can experiment with different kinds of exercises; like yoga, biking, hiking, and dancing to name a few. 

Moving your body can make a significant difference in your overall mental health which I will focus on in another blog. Exercising for at least thirty minutes three to four times per week will produce stress-relieving hormones and will improve your overall well-being. Walking forty-five minutes per day four to five days a week has enhanced my energy level and overall well-being.

• Dental Care

Dental visits several times per year will keep your teeth and mouth healthy. Lack of dental care can contribute to an array of health issues. These are some common and serious health problems caused by bad oral health care.; cardiovascular disease; dementia; poor oral health can affect the brain; respiratory Infections; diabetes; pregnancy complications; Infertility; erectile dysfunction and cancer.

• Wellness Checks

A wellness exam is a type of preventive care. Preventive healthcare focuses on maintaining wellness and stopping health problems before they occur. Don't wait until you have a health issue, be proactive and see your physician several times during the year to ward off health issues.

Wellness visits or wellness exams are typically annual and are separate from other medical visits related to illness or injury.

What is Included in a Wellness Exam?

• A physical examination
• Checking your vitals
• Checking BMI
• Prostate cancer screening (PSA)
• Examination of personal and family medical histories
• Discussion of current lifestyle and health choices
• Screenings
• Shots and immunizations
• Establishing a plan for your health

Screenings may vary depending on age, risk, and gender. During your wellness exam, you may receive screening for cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, mammogram, pap test, osteoporosis, or STDS.

Schedule Your Wellness Exam Today!