By Sheila Johnson of WellSheila.net
Many people have started side hustles or have a business they work on in their spare time, but with all the tips and tricks shared among entrepreneurs, there’s little coverage of self-care. Below are nine self-care tips to help side hustlers stay healthy and productive.
1. Find Time Just for You
Designate 30 minutes a day for yourself. It can be a 15-minute power nap, drinking a cup of chamomile tea, or reading a book. Make sure it’s time that’s yours, free of interruptions from kids, coworkers, or other family members.
2. Sleep
Getting enough sleep isn’t always easy, especially when you’re working a lot. But if you’re working for yourself, it’s crucial. Getting the right amount of sleep every night is vital to managing stress and staying healthy
3. Nutrition
Your body relies on food to function. A diet that’s high in processed foods, caffeine, and sugar can leave you feeling tired and lethargic. Eating a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains can have the opposite effect. Take some time to cook fresh meals for yourself. Also, consider foods high in magnesium, which has many benefits for a busy entrepreneur.
4. Exercise
Physical activity gives your body a mental and physical boost. Find a workout that you enjoy and that fits into your schedule. You can start with this free program that you can do at home from Soul Building Fitness. Setting realistic fitness goals that don’t require drastic changes and staying consistent with an exercise routine are the best ways to make and sustain positive changes in your life.
5. Time Out
Take breaks from your work to recharge. It’s all too easy to burn out, and taking a break helps you stay focused. If you’re working from home, turn off the computer and take a short walk. If you’re at the office, take a walk or run around the block.
6. Don’t Overschedule Yourself
It’s easy to think that being busy equals productivity, but there’s a fine line between the two. When you’re stretched too thin, you become less productive and more stressed.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
The benefits of mindfulness and meditation have long been hailed, and there’s good reason for it. Mindfulness is a practice that involves noticing—without judgment—thoughts and feelings as they arise and just letting them go by. Practicing mindfulness can help you gain control over your thoughts, control your emotions, and increase focus and concentration.
8. Limit Caffeine
Drinking too much coffee or caffeinated drinks can dehydrate your body and interfere with sleep, making you fatigued and prone to stress.
9. Get Outside
A few minutes in nature can calm the mind and body. Go for a short walk or sit by a pond. Spending time in nature increases your energy, creativity, and focus by taking you out of the cycle of stress, burnout, and exhaustion.
Stay Healthy and Productive
Working for yourself can be rewarding, but managing your career, family responsibilities, and personal life can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to make time for activities that help you relax and destress and keep you productive.
Visit Soul Building Fitness’s blog for more tips for those who want to help themselves and others grow their souls through fitness.
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