If there is one remarkable thing about the millennial generation, that is their obsession with health and wellness. Despite this, many of them are lonely, stressed-out, and more anxious than ever. Even before the crisis, many experts worry about their mental health. Their generation already took a hit during the Great Recession. The stigma surrounding millennials, their own problems, plus the pandemic only made everything worse for Generation Y.
This is one reason why millennials should take self-care seriously. With self-care, one can improve their overall health and happiness. It will be easier to chase after your goals since you are inspired, motivated, and have the energy to do so.
Know that if you are feeling overwhelmed, you are never alone. More millennials and other generations feel the same way. You don’t need to suffer any longer from stress, depression, or anxiety but only if you are will to work hard.
For starters, you can consider the following self-care tips applicable for busy and overwhelmed millennials like yourself:
Wake Up Consistently at Least an Hour Earlier Than Usual
One reason we are often stressed out is that we think there is not enough time in a day to finish everything on our to-do list. But in reality, many of us are guilty of frequent procrastination and poor time management skills. Waking up earlier and turning this into a habit will give you more time to take care of yourself each day.
If you usually wake up at six in the morning because you need to be at work by seven, try setting your alarm clock at five. This will give you one additional hour of stretching, do a bit of morning exercise, eat a healthy breakfast, and take a nice shower. You can even have enough time to do something you love doing in the morning before you face your busy day ahead.
When you know you are supposed to wake up extra early in the morning, you will have more reasons to sleep early. This helps you motivate yourself to sleep early and get better rest. You are also giving your body a favor since you are allowing more time to rest and recover after a busy day.
Indulge in a Creative Hobby
Many people think they don’t have a creative bone in their bodies. But sometimes, you only need to try different activities to find your artistic passion. You don’t even have to enroll in a special art class just so you can start painting, sculpting, or crafting a scrapbook.
Creative activities help activate a part of your brain that produces positive emotions. This is thanks to the production of feel-good hormones. So, find time to start a creative hobby that you can even do while quarantining.
For instance, you always wanted to try painting but don’t have the courage to start such a hobby. Why not consider investing in your first DIY Paint By Numbers Kit? This relaxing activity makes you more creative, improves your focus and patience, and can even reduce your stress levels.
Finishing the painting requires time and effort, which can give you a sense of achievement. No matter how easy it may look, it helps boost your organizational and problem-solving skills. This can also be a productive way to pass time especially when you are overwhelmed with everything that is happening today.
Start Resolving Your Spending Weakness
Many millennials would rather spend money on store-bought coffee than make one at home. They would rather swipe their credit cards to pay for their travels. They are also unapologetic with their leisure window shopping at the mall or Office Depot only to come home with bags after bags of purchase.
Since many millennials struggle with their finances, it is time that you start with financial self-care. The better your finances are, the less stressed you will be. Everything else can follow if you are able to take better care of your finances.
Start by listing your reasons why you find it hard to stick to a budget and save money. Knowing your spending triggers and writing down the things you can do to stop yourself from reckless spending. Reevaluate your goals and make sure you add consistent savings and investments to one of your financial objectives.
Maintain a Clean Living Space
Physical clutter does more than just give you an eyesore. It can literally lead to health issues and stop you from feeling good. This is since there is a direct link between your living space and your sense of well-being.
If you want to be physically healthier, more productive, and enhance your mental health, start to maintain a clean and organized home. Don’t take regular cleaning for granted. Get rid of the things you don’t need and use and it will be easier for you to take better care of yourself.
Self-care is not just about staying active, eating healthy, and sleeping more. It is also about giving yourself time to enjoy, relax, and have fun. It is about caring for yourself in a way that will benefit not just the present, but your future as well. The moment you stop making excuses and indulge in self-care, the healthier and happier you will be.
