How to Create (and Keep) Self-Care Habits – Health and Wellness Nashville

With some help from some local expert Influencers, Lindsey Joe (pictured below) of The Meal Planning Method suggest some ways to react to the daily stress we all face.

Let’s be real, when life gets tough, many of us don’t respond by making lemonade out of lemons. Instead, we might fall back on some unhealthy habits that aren’t exactly the best for our self-care. (For example, consuming too much caffeine, binging on TV, drinking in excess, emotionally eating, ignoring the issue(s), etc.) What’s important to realize is that stressful situations themselves aren’t the problem. The issue rather, is the way we react to those stressful situations. And if we find that we respond to these situations in the same way over and over again, it becomes a habit. But the good news is that you CAN find ways to react to your stressors in new and healthier ways. Here’s some self-care advice from a few Nashville-area health and wellness influencers.

Squeeze in something small. “I get short burst training bodyweight exercise sessions in, doing things like push-ups, planks and bodyweight squats. I pack immune-boosting supplements when I travel, including bone broth protein, vitamin D, probiotics and herbs like astragalus.” — Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CNS, Founder of DrAxe.com and Co-Founder of Ancient Nutrition
Say no to things that don’t serve you. “I believe there is a misconception about Self-Care. In many ways it has been deduced to bubble baths and face masks where the reality is self-care is so much more. Self Care is not seducing yourself with luxury and gifts, it is mindfully listening, respecting and honoring your body, mind and spirit. It is developing a relationship with yourself where if something hurts, feels off, or needs attention, you ask questions and take steps to fix it—just as you would for a friend or loved one. Self-Care is the backbone of self love. Although I practice (and it does take practice) self care in many ways, the most transformative has been learning to say no to the things that don’t serve me, respect my goal, or offer me growth. As a recovering people-pleaser this was a hard one, but learning where my limits are and prioritizing my time for things that bring value to my life has been a game changer.” — Allison Avalon, Founder of The Care Kit
Treat yourself to self-care daily. “Without realizing it, I developed a self-care habit a year and a half ago when I became obsessed with matcha potions and mushroom coffees. Now each morning is dedicated to self-care as I create my adaptogen-filled matcha or coffee. I make sure to turn off all devices and really get lost in the process. Self-care, just like any habit, becomes easier with practice.” — Tiffany Napper, Yoga Teacher and Founder of Whitespace and Wellness
Show yourself self-care with your significant other. “As a couple, I think our best form of self-care is quality time. We made cupcakes for our 2 year anniversary, but most of the time, all that matters is simply making the plans to show some effort and thoughtfulness and, of course, putting down our phones and computers. Watching a movie or a game that we both can enjoy during dinner or sitting together and reading before bedtime. Quality time comes at (usually athletic) events, whether it be hiking or spectating a local competition. But even just a drive in the car with good conversation can scratch a much needed “self-care” itch.” — Ryan Freebing and Lindsay Miller of Nashville Fit Magazine
Set boundaries to be your best self. “One of the ways I make sure to get self-care each week is to not do anything work-related on Saturdays. It’s a personal boundary I set for myself many years ago when I wasn’t feeling well-rested and rejuvenated come Mondays. For anyone pursuing passions outside of their full-time career, it can feel like you’re on-the-go constantly! By allowing myself to enjoy a full day to do whatever I please — whether it’s trying a new fitness studio in town, taking my time making a new recipe, or having a Harry Potter movie marathon — I’m ready to take on the busy work week like a boss!” — Lindsey Joe, RDN LDN, Founder of The Meal Planning Method

There really is no right or wrong when it comes to giving yourself the needed time and attention your body craves and that you deserve. Commit to more self-care now to keep your stress levels in check in the new year!

About the author: Lindsey is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist from Nashville, TN. Lindsey is passionate about helping people ignite the healthy that makes them happy and you can follow all her food-filled adventures at @themealplanningmethod!