4 Proven Ways Self-Care Helps You Stay Healthy and Happy

Beyond going to the spa or getting a massage, self-care is a way to stay healthy, physically and mentally.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine, titled “The Experience of Self-Care: A Systematic Review,” defines self-care as the set of activities a person engages throughout life on a daily basis in order to promote optimal health, prevent illness, and improve one’s general well-being. With the rise of self-care awareness, the range of activities that can fall under this category is limitless — whatever makes you feel healthy and happy, do that. Here are the self-care practices that have been proven to improve health and well-being.

According to a March 2019 study published in JAMA Network Open, people who exercise between two to eight hours per week decrease the risk of mortality by 29 to 36 percent. The study also states that midlife is not too late to start physical activity. People in their 40s and up can still benefit from regular exercise. Aerobic exercise reduces your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and falls, according to Harvard Health. These activities include brisk walking, swimming, jogging, cycling, dancing, or even following an aerobic workout online.

Protect yourself from odor and sweat during exercise with Rexona Women Shower Clean Antiperspirant Deodorant Roll-On. It provides brightening protection with Motionsense, controlling sweat and odor for up to 48 hours.

Finding purpose in life doesn’t just provide direction and motivation, it’s also proven to decrease mortality rates.

A May 2019 study published in JAMA Network Open states that purposeful living does have health benefits. It defines life purpose as a “self-organizing life aim that stimulates goals.” In addition, purpose is a central component in human development and psychological well-being, says a study commissioned by the John Templeton Foundation. Moreover, purpose plays a key role as human beings age, improving physical functions in older adults, including walking speed and physical strength. 

While you’re busy organizing your life, make sure your skin gets the right kind of care. Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid will give you a glow as bright as your future. POND’S While Beauty Skin Perfecting Serum Burst Cream delivers 10 times the brightening power compared to vitamin C. 

Flash a big smile when you’ve finally found your purpose. Use a toothpaste that protects teeth and gums with zinc antibacterial mouthwash, such as closeup All Around Fresh Soothing Menthol Toothpaste. It also contains fluoride, which guards teeth against cavities and gum disease, making your smile that much brighter, too.

A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that getting less than seven hours of sleep per night is linked to high mortality rates as well. Harvard Health suggests getting seven to nine hours per night depending on your body’s needs. Do this to reduce stress, increase energy, maintain a healthy weight, improve focus and memory, and improve mood and self-esteem.

If you’re having trouble sleeping, try wearing an eye mask to darken the room, keeping your environment at a comfortable temperature, and creating a to-do list to prevent your mind from racing. Try using a soap or shampoo with lavender oil, which promotes sleep and fights insomnia. Love Beauty and Planet Argan Oil and Lavender Smooth and Serene Shampoo and Conditioner, which controls frizz and moisturizes hair. Dove Bar Relaxing Lavender also creates a relaxing shower experience with lavender, shea butter, vanilla, and ¼ moisturizing cream.

Stay healthy and happy by practicing these simple self-care activities as regularly as you can.