Self-Care Tips

Practicing self-care means taking time to care for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It offers numerous health benefits and those who practice it consistently appear more balanced, centered, and present. Check out the tips below to begin practicing self-care!

Utilize your Vacation Time

Taking a break is extremely good for your mental health. It changes your frame of mind, gets you out of your standard patterns, and can give you time for yourself and loved ones. Check out these postcards for ideas for some “me time." 

 

Prioritize your Mental/Emotional Health

It’s important to prioritize our mental and emotional wellbeing. Whether family issues, daily stressors, or significant changes impact your life; support is available through the Faculty/Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) via telephonic consultations or even text message therapy. 

Consider the mental and emotional benefits of being mindful by reviewing Strategies for Centering, Reflecting and Meditating in the Workplace.

 

Rely on Resources

Life can be stressful. Considering changes inside or outside your home? Changing your financial goals? Looking for legal advice? Think of the Faculty/Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) as your personal assistant – an extra set of hands when your plate is overflowing. They’ll connect you to the local resources you need to get back on track.

 

Give Yourself Small Breaks Throughout the Day

Short breaks can reduce mental fatigue, boost brain function, and help us stay focused. Try a brief relaxation exercise to help reduce muscle tension and lower your heart rate. 

 

 

Commit to Healthy Behaviors

From gardening to healthy cooking, morning yoga practices to distance running, this is a great time to try a new healthy activity. Wellness webinars are scheduled throughout the year to support you- and wellness portal resources are available 24/7.

 

 

 

 

Don’t Skip your Medical Appointments

Telemedicine enables you to see a physician virtually from the comfort of your home or workplace. Issues including bug bites and rashes, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, and more, can be treated through telemedicine.

 

Accept a Helping Hand

In addition to in-home back-up care for loved ones, Bright Horizons connects you to resources for finding nannies, tutors, babysitters, and pet-sitters. So whether you are looking for temporary in-home care or a full-time nanny, resources are available to assist you in finding the support you need to care for your loved ones. 

 

 

 

 

Get Some Fresh Air

Rates of depression have been shown to be lowered more effectively in people who walked outdoors versus indoors. Physical activity will increase feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine during and after your exercise session, so get outside and get moving- your mind and body will thank you.

 

Explore Alternative Work Assignments (AWA)

Brown’s Alternative Work Assignment (AWA) policy offers innovative approaches to meeting the University’s operational needs while promoting balance between work and personal life for its staff. Depending on the needs of the department, AWAs may be a beneficial alternative to the University’s regular work schedule that allows the University to meet business needs while providing greater workplace flexibility.