We know it is important to build good relationships and spend our time and energy on our family. But to keep this going, you also need to spend some time looking after yourself. Think of it as self-maintenance; you have to take care of yourself to take care of someone else. With this in mind, we have put together a few things to consider.
We know it is important to build good relationships and spend our time and energy on our family. But to keep this going, you also need to spend some time looking after yourself. Think of it as self-maintenance; you have to take care of yourself to take care of someone else. With this in mind, below are some things to consider.
Being together with your family is great, but everyone needs some quiet time for reflection. Maybe you have a shed, a study or just a quiet spot in your garden that you can use. Find a space to relax and recharge.
In a relationship with your partner, you probably have joint friends and your own friends. Make sure you don’t ignore the latter. It can be easy to cut yourself off from friends when you are busy. Try to find the time to call up an old mate and organise a time to meet. It can be as simple as tossing a football in the park.
Find healthy ways of coping with stress. It can be going for a short walk, taking a bath, doing a breathing exercise, or trying a relaxation technique like the one below.
With progressive muscle relaxation, you slowly tense and then relax each muscle group in your body one at a time. Most people like to start with their toes and then work their way up the body.
Whichever way you decide to manage stress, make sure you avoid unhealthy behaviours like alcohol, drugs and smoking. These unhealthy coping behaviours can lead to more stress in the long run.
Looking after yourself also includes your physical health. When you go to the doctor for a health check, make sure it covers blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, prostate and heart disease.
MensLine Australia is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with professional counsellors providing information and support for all emotional health issues.
Call us on 1300 78 99 78 or access online counselling.
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