Wellness is a broad topic and can be interpreted in many different ways. Many individuals have different experiences that can affect them socially, mentally, physically or emotionally. Nutrition is the cornerstone of what centers the entire body and can impact each wellness segment.
Studies have shown that in particular women require balanced nutrition at every stage of maturity from adolescent to reproductive to geriatric. A daily intake of Macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat and protein), water and physical activity are required to achieve an overall healthy lifestyle. https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/dietary-guidelines-and-myplate/healthy-eating-for-women
To be more specific, women between the ages of 19-28yo will have a higher caloric need as they are still maturing and preparing for reproductive stage while women of advanced ages >65yo will need less calories as our metabolic demands tend to decrease with age.
As a Registered Dietitian, I am extremely passionate about wellness, especially for women. We tend to be nurtures to everyone else and often neglect our own needs for nutrition, rest and psycho-social support. Most women I counsel express the need to put certain passions and tasks for themselves off until they have more time.
These are some of the tips I recommend for fostering Self-Care in Women:
- Create a Priority List Weekly ( Organize it by Personal & Professional tasks)
- Try a new food item or that recipe you’ve had saved for so long
- Drink a cup of hot herbal tea to help you relax before bed
- Take a walk in a park or beach; stopping for deep breaths of fresh air
- Read a new book or article which helps to stimulate your mind more than just watching TV or scrolling through your phone
We have to all find some way to RELAX, RECHARGE and REFUEL or Mind, Body and Soul with the natural elements of the earth. For me personally, having complete rest days are key, being that I work a few jobs within the healthcare sector. Food is my absolute form of refueling my body with a nutritious meal, snack and hydration with lots of water. When I started setting aside time for my own personal WELLNESS, I was able to give efficiently to my crafts both professionally and personally.
