Five ways to enhance your self-care routines.

Why self-care routines require continual refinement.

I scaled back my schedule last week and took extra time for self-care. Most people don’t usually look forward to seeing their dentist but any outing counts as an event right now. Taking care of your teeth delivers a boost to your whole body and a little primping does wonders for your mental health. The added bonus of the extra self-care time is the additional changes that resulted in my routines.

Five ways to enhance your self-care routines

1/ Upgrade your tooth brush

The basic Sonicare toothbrush produces hygiene benefits but does little to help you maintain the health of your gums. Medical research shows your gums are not only important to your appearance but also to your overall health. Investing in a new Sonicare model with pressure sensors and gum settings will save you more money and pain in the future.  

2/ Choose your product carefully

If you’re in the habit of buying the cheapest cleaning supplies for your home and body, now is a good time to read the product labels more closely especially if you have to buy in bulk.

What you use in your home and put on your skin matters to your health. In addition to the contents, consider the environmental practices of the company. Some use recycled plastics for their containers which helps to reduce your environmental footprint and will eventually, improve your health too. Environmental toxins are linked to cancer.

3/ Purchase new Pilates props

Feet are so important but often get neglected. The more miles you have on your feet, the more likely you’ll experience foot pain. Foot pain can lead to pain in other joints and even your back.

Strengthening and stretching your feet is as important as basic foot care. A regular Pilates practice helps to keep your feet in good functional condition. New props like the Franklin Method balls can take your Pilates practice to the next level. Stayed tuned on Pilates & for new classes incorporating the green balls.

4/ Use devices to monitor your health

Devices you wear and use in your home are making it easier for physicians to diagnosis medical conditions and do so with greater accuracy. Early diagnosis is the key to improving your outcome and to reducing the negative side effects you might experience later. 

Incorporating devices into your life is a personal choice. If you’re interested, keep an eye on the health app in your phone for new ways to track the changes in your body. If you’re worried about your privacy and protection of your personal health information, it’s an issue being taken seriously by everyone in the healthcare industry.

5/ Invest your time in you

A few resources to help you debunk health claims and to improve your mental health.

The Vagina Bible by Dr. Jen Gunter is a good one for women to have as a reference guide. The book answers the questions that most women are too embarrassed to ask their own doctor. Watch for her next book coming out in the Spring 2021 on menopause.

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown is a good one for both men and women. The book was recently updated for the 10th anniversary and now has an assessment and downloads to help you live more authentically. Brené always delivers valuable insights to improve your relationships and life.