Take care of yourself

Taking care of yourself is not selfish but rather puts you in a better place to take care of others – which is what we do at Opal. We need to be in the best possible position to deliver our purpose: to bring joy to those we care for.

Here are 3 quick and easy ways to incorporate simple self-care habits into your day.

Sharing is caring

When you’re sitting there with your head in your hands wondering how you can get through another hour or minute – that’s the time to pick up the phone (not the email or text) or talk to someone who cares. Sharing how you’re going and getting that support is not selfish, it’s self-sustaining.

Sharing and showing that courageous vulnerability gives permission for others to do the same and have that conversation… because we’re in this crazy time together as a team.

This week I happened to say, “Gosh, I feel like I’m falling further and further behind.”

On the other end of the phone I heard a huge sigh of relief and “I’m so glad you said that, I thought it was just me...”

If you believe that someone you know would benefit from sharing, follow through with all 4 steps to initiate the R U OK conversation:

Boost your immunity and nourish your body

Taking care of your body is also an important part of self-care.

Add half a lemon to your glass of water because the lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system so you fight off colds and flu better. 

Also, lemons contain pectin which helps you feel full without feeling bloated, so you don’t snack as much on unhealthy treats during the day. Show yourself that you care by taking care of your body.

Self-care can be as easy as stretching while you get dressed

Taking care of your muscles is important to complete the physical aspects of our role and helps with those of us who sit at a desk all day. Incorporate stretching whenever you can.

• Reach that extra inch when you put on your clothes.  
• Touch your toes when you put on your shoes.  
• Do a mini back bend while you put on your trousers or skirt.  
• Side stretch (half moon pose) when you put on your shirt.  

It doesn't have to be a full sun salutation or marathon to help your body warm up for work.

Remember that self-care is not selfish it is self sustaining.