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I often get asked, “where do I start with self-care?’” My answer to this is always, “with the basics!” Incorporating simple practices can initiate a journey of self-care. Self-care serves as the cornerstone of a healthy and fulfilling life. In the fast-paced world of today, essential aspects of well-being are often neglected, resulting in stress, burnout, and numerous physical and mental health issues. It’s vital to remember that taking care of self is not a luxury but a necessity. This article delves into the basics of self-care, emphasizing the critical importance of proper sleep. Embarking on this journey paves the way towards a healthier and happier life.

The basics of self-care encompass nurturing physical, emotional, and mental well-being through the adoption of habits and practices that promote overall health and happiness. This involves maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, prioritizing restorative sleep, managing stress, and fostering meaningful connections with others. Incorporating these essential elements into a daily routine lays the foundation for a more resilient, content, and fulfilled life.

The first, and I believe, the most important act of self-care is sleep. Sleep is the foundation upon which we build our health, productivity, and overall well-being. When sleep is the priority, we optimize physical and mental performance, making it easier to tackle daily tasks and enjoy life to the fullest.

One of my favorite podcasters is Andrew Huberman, who is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. He says, “Sleep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body health each day.” I recommend listening to his entire podcast that he devoted to sleep entitled, “Perfect Your Sleep” from Aug 8, 2022.

Here are a few ways to prioritize sleep and see its benefits:

Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate the internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

Create a Sleep-Inducing Environment: Make the bedroom a sanctuary for sleep by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in comfortable bedding and consider using blackout curtains or a white noise machine to block out any disturbances.

Develop a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Cultivate habits that help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. This might include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.

Limit Exposure to Screens Before Bed: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime.

Pay Attention to Diet: Consuming heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol close to bedtime can disrupt sleep. Instead, opt for lighter, sleep-friendly foods and beverages in the evening.

Stay Active: Regular exercise can improve sleep quality, but avoid vigorous workouts close to bedtime, as they can make it more difficult to fall asleep.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on sleep quality. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga into the daily routine.

Remember, sleep is not a luxury; it’s an essential component of self-care. By prioritizing sleep and implementing these strategies, a healthier, happier, and more balanced life is attainable. As Andrew Huberman reminds us, taking care of our sleep is the most effective way to reset our brain and body health each day. So, make sleep a non-negotiable aspect of the self-care routine and experience the transformative effects.

Jerry Frear is a highly experienced transformation coach, executive coach, and business coach. With over 30 years of experience as a pastor and digital marketer, Jerry has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to draw upon in his coaching practice. He is dedicated to helping people become their best selves, and believes that there is always something to do every day to become better. If you have any questions or would like to connect

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