Self care has become a hot topic. And while some may feel a sense of guilt when devoting time to themselves, in reality it is a step towards putting your best self forward. It is a way to take care of your mind and treat your body like a temple that allows you to be your most functional self for others and move through each day with more ease and productivity. From the simple act of taking time to stretch to seeing a counselor to investing in massage therapy to taking the time to go on retreats with other like minded souls, self care is more than a manicure here and there, it is mental restoration, self awareness and moving your body. We highlight some Huntsville professionals who understand the art of caring for oneself.
Stretch to relieve stress
Stretching is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to care for your body, whether you’re doing it on your own or with assistance. Even basic stretching helps improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and support overall mobility. While stretching on your own is beneficial, assisted stretching takes it to the next level by providing deeper, more targeted stretches that are hard to achieve alone. "Any stretching is better than no stretching! Regular stretching, whether solo or assisted, supports better posture, relieves tension, and makes daily movements easier. It also aids in muscle recovery and stress relief by improving blood flow," explains owner of Stretch Lab, Laken Moore. Just starting a stretching routine, even for a few minutes a day, can make a big difference in how you feel and move. Combine it with assisted stretching to maximize results and move with ease!
Stretch Lab: 930 Bob Wallace Ave Suite 227
Invest in your mental health
When it comes to self care, it all starts in the mind. Life events compile and weigh on us, and it can be easy to get stuck in the mundane tasks of everyday responsibilities, not realizing that your health is suffering until it is too late. Tom Papworth of Zia Counseling explains, "mental health is directly correlated with physical health...When our bodies are in flight or fight mode it can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure, disrupted sleep, poor academic and work performance, and anxiety." He adds, "The sooner you can get a handle on your mental health, the more your physical ailments can be comprehensively addressed and managed, leading to a much more well-rounded lifestyle." Even if you feel you have no major life-altering events causing you grief, counseling is a great way to get the stressors of life out into the open, leaving you feeling lighter and more in control of your emotions.
Zia Counseling: 4650 Whitesburg Dr #102 (256) 513-9194
Relax your mind and body in massage therapy
"Massage offers numerous benefits for both your health and overall well-being. It helps relax the muscles and maintain tissue flexibility, promoting better muscle function. By incorporating regular massage into your routine, you can experience reduced stress, improved relaxation, and enhanced focus," says Joy Cushen LMT
Vous Salon Retreat: 3315 Bob Wallace Ave SW #207 www.voussalonretreat.com
Find your tribe
Self care isn't always done by yourself. Finding a community who can relate to your struggles and hold you accountable is imperative for sustainable growth. Spiritual life coach, Maria Brito, brings women together for emotional experiences where they learn to tap into their true calling to let go of their toxic habits and be unapologetically themselves. Maria says "setting time aside for ourselves is a personal investment that builds escrow for the days when life hits us the hardest." Whether it is waking up 20 minutes early for a meditation, or going on a retreat to a tropical paradise, women have to make themselves a priority. We tend to wait to see what everyone else needs from us before we commit to self care, and that is when our cup becomes empty. Maria's local and destination retreats will leave you equipped with mental, physical and emotional tools to be able to prioritize yourself and feel and perform your best in your daily life.
Visit www.awakenwithmaria.com to book a retreat.