The Response Summer 2021 - 12

FEATURE
WHAT IS
EMOTIONAL SELF-CARE
Taking emotional care of ourselves means learning how to manage
stress and improve our quality of life. Emotional self-care can
include setting boundaries, taking time to relax, learning how to
relax (for example, deep breathing exercises), and acknowledging and
experiencing our emotions. The saying " laughter is the best medicine "
is more than an old cliché - laughter increases immune system
strength and resistance to disease. Professional support from counselors
or therapists is one path to selfcare.
PHYSICAL SELF-CARE
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
moderate aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities can reduce the
risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, anxiety,
depression, and dementia. Researchers have found that as few has 10
minutes of light exercise per day can increase the odds of being happy.
Combined with healthful eating, regular exercise can increase stamina
and longevity.
SOCIAL SELF-CARE
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we connect with
others. Maintaining social connections is critical for reducing
loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Engaging in social activities builds
a healthy immune system, improves cognitive functioning, and
promotes healthy aging.
SPIRITUAL SELF-CARE
Mindfulness is the ability to experience the present moment, and
more specifically, accept one's feelings and thoughts as a regular part
of our daily experience. Developing a sense of mindfulness through
meditation, prayer, yoga, or other focused activities can contribute
to an overall sense of well-being and improve our eating and sleeping
habits.
Sources:
An, H. Y., Chen, W., Wang, C. W., Yang, H. F., Huang, W. T., & Fan, S. Y. (2020). The relationships between physical activity and life satisfaction and happiness
among young, middle-aged, and older adults. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(13), 4817.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/physical-activity.htm
Gonot-Schoupinsky, F. N., Garip, G., & Sheffield, D. (2020). Laughter and humour for personal development: A systematic scoping review of the evidence.
European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 37, 101144.
National Institute of Aging. (n.d.). https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy
Zhang, Z., Chen, W. A. (2019). Systematic review of the relationship between physical activity and happiness. Journal of Happiness Studies, 20, 1305-1322.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-018-9976-0
12 THE RESPONSE // SUMMER 2021
Self ?
- Care

https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/physical-activity.htm https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy https://www.doi.org/10.1007/s10902-018-9976-0

The Response Summer 2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Response Summer 2021