To mark Self Care Week 2017 (which runs from November 13-19) NHS Hull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) would like to share the ways we can all embrace the idea of Self Care for Life.
Embracing Self Care for Life is about living well and being healthy. Being active, eating a balanced diet and learning when to self treat common ailments are all ways to embrace self care.
Many long term conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) are avoidable. However, numbers are still increasing. It is important to embrace self care, making healthy life choices now in order to look after ourselves in the future.
Dr James Crick, consultant in Public Health medicine and associate medical director for the CCG, said:
‘’There are some really simple changes you can make to help avoid getting a long term condition.
- “Move more! If going to the gym isn’t for you, try walking part of the way to work, taking the stairs or having a dance to your favourite songs.
- “Stop smoking! One of the best things you can do for your health is to stop smoking. Ask your local pharmacist about stop smoking services, or contact the service yourself on 0800 3 247 111.
- “Sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential to good physical and mental health so don’t burn the candle at both ends, make sure you get at least 7 hours sleep a night!
- “Eat well. It is vitally important that we get the nutrients we need and avoid excessive amounts of salt, fat and sugar. Try swapping chocolate and crisps to nuts and fruit for healthy snack options. Ask your pharmacist for advice on managing your weight.
- “Relax. We have such busy lives that we sometimes forget to take time out to relax, but it is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing. Find time in the day to be still and quieten your mind. Consider mindfulness or yoga as these can be helpful.’’
Self Care Week is the perfect opportunity to make time to think about the positive steps you can take to embrace Self Care for Life. Let’s make Self Care a life-long habit.
For more information on how to embrace Self Care for Life visit: https://www.nhs.uk/selfcare/Pages/self-care-week-2017.aspx
