When a woman thrives, everyone around her flourishes too. Hence, women should never ignore self-care and well-being. Let us focus on health and wellness — keys to unlocking true happiness.
“You, yourself, as much as anybody in the universe, deserve your love and affection.” Among all forms of love, self-love stands as the most essential, yet it is often ignored, especially in the case of women. When you nurture and care for yourself, everything else harmoniously falls into place. Zen philosophy teaches that self-love is about embracing your true nature, flaws and all, with compassion and understanding. It guides you to see y ourself as an integral part of the interconnected universe, worthy of the same love and kindness you extend to others.
Self-love embodies a profound appreciation for oneself that blossoms from actions nurturing our physical, psychological, and spiritual growth. In contrast to narcissism, which is self-centered and unhealthy, self-love is a radiant and positive attribute that places your well-being and happiness at the forefront. “Self-love is the ability to accept your flaws and appreciate or recognize your worth. It is very important because it serves as a foundation for forming a healthy relationship with yourself. Once you form a healthy relationship with yourself, it helps foster healthy relationship with others.”
MAKE TIME FOR HEALTH:
Taking care of themselves is more important for women, as most of them tend to ignore their health and happiness or give it the least priority. “Prioritizing your health is not an indulgence; it is a necessity that empowers you to continue excelling in every facet of life.”
“For working women juggling many duties, setting aside time for physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, and doing things that foster mental relaxation such as yoga or meditation are crucial.” Health should be a priority for all especially for middle-aged women. “For women transitioning into their forties and beyond, making health a priority becomes increasingly important. This stage brings hormonal shifts, stresses from daily life, and nutritious needs that require more attention. Taking a proactive approach to wellness — through regular screenings, balanced nutrition, and managing stress — can greatly enhance longevity and quality of life.”
SMALL STEPS, BIG IMPACT:
Talking about ways to lead a healthy life, “The diet should be rich in vegetables, one should aim for consuming at least 20 kinds of vegetables in as many colors as possible. The carbohydrates in the diet should be derived from whole grains. The protein requirement of the body is at least 0.8g/kg of body weight. This need should be met by consuming different varieties of beans and lentils, lean meats, seafood and eggs, depending on the person’s preferences, One should aim to eat only until the stomach is 70 to 80% full. Sleep should be prioritized and one should try to consistently get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep. Regular exercise according to the person’s capacity should be done at least 6 days per week. Alcohol intake and smoking should be occasionally if not altogether avoidable.”
Along with maintaining good health, there are several ways to practice self-love. Taking breaks from work and routine tasks, spending time in nature, pursuing hobbies, and enjoying free time without distractions, are a few ways to focus on oneself. “Practicing self-love is like having a self-care routine every single day. I would recommend incorporating physical exercise, mindfulness training, writing in a gratitude journal, and engaging in enjoyable activities every day.”
EMPOWER YOURSELF:
Taking good care of ourselves plays an important role in reducing stress, enhancing our abilities, and increasing our confidence. It also has a significant impact on strengthening relationships and physical and mental health. How self-care can change lives in two important ways.
“First, on an individual level, it boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. It makes you happier, calmer, cognitively stronger, and better at making decisions without being impulsive. Second, on a relationship level, self-care helps establish healthy boundaries in our relationships.”
In today’s fast-paced world, disconnecting from technology, and taking breaks from digital devices and social media is important to reconnect with self and reflect on personal matters. Spending time alone and having ‘me time’ is crucial.
“My morning walk in the nearby park is my way of connecting with myself. It is the time when I reflect on my thoughts and plan my day.” Love is a powerful positive energy that is essential for a healthy harmony between the mind, body, and soul. Realize this power of love, starting with the most important person — yourself!
