February- Month of Self Care
February is the month of love. I invite you to choose to love yourself this month.
Here are a few things you can add to your day to help you connect with yourself and bring about healing. For more in depth and individualized care, please contact me at simone@drsimonebaum.com.
Food is medicine. All processes of our body are fueled by the food we eat. Getting the adequate macro and micronutrients from food is important to all aspects of health. Here are a few things you to do to ensure you are getting proper nutrition:
Eat or increase your intake of grass fed, organic and/or free range meats, dairy, vegetables and fruit
Eat low mercury fish (Wild Salmon, anchovy, char, herring) and increase fish intake to 3 times a week.
Eat the rainbow. Eating more colours at each meal allows for more micronutrients in your diet.
Also make sure you are having adequate protein at every meal including snacks. Protein helps to stabilize your blood sugar levels and keeps your mind sharp.
Drink water throughout the day to help nourish your body and decrease fatigue.
Exercise helps stabilize blood sugar levels, increases immunity, calms anxiety and boosts mood.
Try to add in 30-60 min of some form of exercise daily.
Get active in things that make you happy. HIIT classes, pilates, yoga, Lagree, The Class, boxing, hiking, biking, tai chi, walking
Try to prioritize quality sleep. Sleep allows your body and mind to heal. It allows you to think clearer, increases immunity and energy.
Here are a few suggestions to help you sleep better:
Turn all electronics off for one hour before bed.
Read a non-stimulating book or journal.
Writing in a gratitude journal can leave you with positive thoughts and a calm nervous system before bed.
Adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to your pillow can also ease your nervous system.
Stress relief helps increase your immune system and balance your nervous and endocrine systems. Taking small breaks throughout the day positively affects your nervous system and health. Take 5 a few times in the day!
Meditation
Abdominal breathing
Forest bathing
Dry brushing
Sauna/sweat
Gua sha massage
Home spa
Foot massage with essential oils
Bath with epsom salts and essential oils
Humming and singing
Over the past couple of years, many people have felt isolated. This isolation has negatively affected mental health and the nervous system. It is important to find creative ways to stay connected to one another. Social engagement allows one to feel safe and secure in the world.
Phone or zoom calls
Walks with friends
Exercise classes with friends or surrounded by people
Taking a course with friends or surrounded by people
Meeting friends for a quick coffee before work or a quick dinner if schedules are busy
Writing letters or emails to friends a far
For more in depth questions on health/wellbeing and an individualized treatment plan, please contact me.
And remember- Let's focus on ourselves this month!