Physical Self-Care

You can personalize the Physical Self-Care resource by downloading it HERE and adding your own responses, or continue to view it below.

Physical self-care includes fueling your body, getting adequate sleep, participating in physical activities, and taking care of your physical needs. Making sure you’re attending medical appointments and taking medications as prescribed are also part of physical self-care.

Strategies for Physical Self-Care

• Exercise daily. Exercise produces stress-relieving hormones and improves your overall wellbeing. The Mayo Clinic recommends 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Making it a priority to eat healthier can help lower your risk of chronic diseases and help with your mood and energy levels.
• Get a good night’s sleep. Adults generally need between seven and nine hours of sleep. Avoiding the use of smartphones, computers, and TV before bed, and maintaining a bedtime routine can help you have a more restful sleep.
• Reduce substance use. Substances like alcohol and nicotine may help you feel better temporarily, but they do not ease stress in the long term; and can in fact, worsen one’s physical and mental health.
• Use relaxation techniques. Things like deep breathing, meditation and muscle relaxation exercises are quick and easy ways to reduce stress.
• Make time for friends and family. By carving out time for friends and family, you can avoid feeling disconnected from others. Engaging in social time has a positive effect on your physical and mental health, and can reduce the risk of becoming depressed.

Self Check-In

For the self check-in worksheet follow this link to the editable PDF version of this resource.