Self Care And Self Improvement

[Sailorgal]

I've seen lots of people ask about "what to do" and there has been loads of great suggestions and tips. I think it would be beneficial to have one thread where we can list ideas that everyone and anyone can benefit from.

Everyone is at different stages in their lives, in their healing (including illnesses other than PTSD and medications taken), some are sufferers, some are supporters, and we are all in different parts of the world with different cultures. However, there are some basics we all must have in our lives: food, water, sleep, hygiene. We know there is no miracle cure but every bit helps and we don't need to add fuel to the fire. :)

Here are a few things I've recently changed:

A few days ago, I've cut back my coffee intake by half (down from 6 cups a day) and drinking more herbal teas and water (already drink water but not enough).

I also started giving myself home manicures again.

What things are you doing to take care of yourself?

 

[Abstract]

Great idea for a thread SG! :tup::)

 

[discarded]

Great idea Sailorgal. My counsellor often asks what I am doing for me and I rarely can think of anything. I have started reading again though and doing a bit of swimming for relaxation more than exercise. I have spent far too long giving all my time to others that I have forgotten how to care for myself and just be me, instead of someone's wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunt, grandmother, friend, employee, sport's manager and the list goes on. 2013 for me is going to be the year of getting to know me again.

 

[safenow]

Great idea, Sailorgal. Good going, discarded.

I am actually writing a journal again (here). I am also making sure I try to walk each and every day. I am trying to be gentler with myself.

 

[Sailorgal]

Discarded-good for you! I've been researching information on exercise and healing of PTSD.

2013 for me is going to be the year of getting to know me again.

I believe it for you! That is the most important thing. :)

Safenow, I admire your courage and it's evident reading your diary!

So what other things have people given up or removing that are unhealthy in their lives? What steps have you take or in process of to improve yourself? It'd be great to encourage and learn from others.

Oh does anyone use aromatherapy or essential oils? Lavender, grapefruit, lemon, and orange scents are great mood lifters!

 

[Deleted member 12723]

My husband and I quit smoking many months ago. I still have cravings but feel better. I drink alot of water.

 

[safenow]

Oh does anyone use aromatherapy or essential oils?

Lavender is wonderful for us older folks. It is reminiscent of our great grandparents. lol

 

[amethist]

Sailorgirl, you may find this thread interesting.

[DLMURL]https://www.ptsdforum.org/c/threads/aromatherapy-that-may-help-relieve-some-ptsd-symptoms.13571/[/DLMURL]

 

[Sailorgal]

Great add Amethist! I didn't do a search for A post, just thought of asking it when I posted! I've been using for years myself.

Anyone interested, it's a great thread to discuss what it is, how to use, the benefits and cautions with using it. :)

 

[Sailorgal]

My husband and I quit smoking many months ago. I still have cravings but feel better. I drink alot of water.

That's such a huge accomplishment Gizmo! It's a very tough habit for people to break. May you continue to benefit from a nicotine free life!

 

[Deleted member 12723]

I sure hope so. I am getting used to not smoking. It is really good for the granddaughters. They did not like us smoking. They are happy that we quit smoking.

 

[safenow]

a great thread to discuss what it is, how to use, the benefits and cautions with using it.

Did you know that 1 drop of oil of cloves will stop a toothache? It tastes nasty, but works like a champ to deaden it til you can get to a dentist.