Self-care is vital for everyone, especially those who constantly care for others. It’s essential to take some time for yourself to recharge and relax. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences a mental health disorder in a given year. And according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US. These statistics show that it’s essential for people to take care of their mental health by practicing self-care.
Some ways to practice self-care include: getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, spending time with friends and family, taking breaks during work, and engaging in relaxation activities such as yoga or meditation. These are all simple ways to help improve your mental health and well-being. However, there will be a few essential items you should add to your self-care bag.
Sunscreen
Skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it’s essential to take care of it. People who constantly care for others often neglect their needs, which can lead to skin problems. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and is largely preventable. The best way to prevent skin cancer is by using sunscreen.
Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It’s essential to wear sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, because up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate through clouds. Sunscreen also helps protect against premature skin aging, wrinkles, and sunspots.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s also important to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
So, make sure to add sunscreen to your self-care bag! It’s one of the essential items you can bring to protect your skin.
Moisturizer
Another essential item for your self-care bag is moisturizer. Moisturizer helps keep skin hydrated and free of dryness, which can lead to flaking, itching, and scaling. Dry skin is also more prone to wrinkles and other signs of aging.
A good moisturizer helps lock in moisture and keep your skin healthy and glowing. Choosing a moisturizer that works well with your skin type (oily, dry, combination) is essential. Moisturizers come in various forms, such as lotions, creams, ointments, and serums. For inflamed skin, choosing a moisturizer is vital to help soothe and protect it. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients such as chamomile or aloe vera. These ingredients can help calm and soothe inflamed skin. You can shop for skincare products for inflamed skin and add them to your self-care bag.
Make sure to add a good moisturizer to your self-care bag! It will help keep you looking young while protecting your skin from the elements. You can buy moisturizers online since you might be using them quickly.
Treats
Nutrition is a crucial part of self-care. Healthy food helps provide energy, combat stress, and maintain overall health. But it’s also important to treat yourself once in a while!
Treats are the perfect way to give yourself a little reward. It could be something as simple as dark chocolate or your favorite ice cream flavor. Or you can splurge on a spa day or a massage session now and then.
Make sure to add some treats in your self-care bag for those moments when you need an extra boost of motivation and energy! Treating yourself occasionally is essential to self-care, so remember to add this item to your list.
Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer
It’s no secret that cleanliness is key to staying healthy, especially during a pandemic. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are essential for keeping your hands clean and free of germs.
These sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol and help kill bacteria, viruses, and other germs that can cause illnesses. They’re also convenient since you don’t need water or soap. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60% or higher alcohol content can reduce the risk of illness.
Make sure to add some alcohol-based hand sanitizers to your self-care bag! It’s a great way to stay healthy, especially when you’re out and about. You can buy them in different sizes so they’ll be easy to carry around.
Small Self-Defense Items
Self-care also means taking care of your safety and well-being. You can add some small self-defense items to your bags, such as pepper spray, a pocket knife, or a small stun gun. You can use these items to protect yourself in case of an emergency.
It’s always important to know how to use any weapons you carry correctly, so ensure you get the proper training before taking these items. It’s also essential to research the laws regarding self-defense items in your area before purchasing them.
Final Thoughts
Self-care is a vital part of staying healthy and happy. Making sure to have the right items in your self-care bag is essential for taking care of your body, mind, and soul. From sunscreen to treats, make sure to include all the essentials for a stress-free life!
