If the term “self-care” conjures up images of white fluffy robes and luxurious spas, you might be surprised to learn that your colonoscopy is also a form of self-care. So is showing up for your annual mammogram, Pap smear and yearly physical exam. And that exercise class that helps keep your weight in check, that’s also self-care.
Many women take on the role of primary caregivers for their families, often putting their own health on the back burner. This mindset can make self-care feel like a luxury, leaving women feeling guilty when they try to prioritize their well-being. It’s time to change that! Self-care is essential, not indulgent. Caring for yourself is just as important as caring for those around you, and prioritizing your health is a vital step toward living a balanced and fulfilling life.
Hoag for Her Center for Wellness focuses on whole-body health that involves every aspect of wellness – the body, mind and spirit – to promote a tailored, comprehensive and integrative approach to healthy living for women of all ages.
Women who undergo mammography are 41% less likely to die of breast cancer within 10 years. Hoag’s robust maternal mental health program supports women contending with postpartum depression. And Hoag’s pelvic floor specialists can help women who suffer in silence find relief.
Dr. Flora recommends that women take the time for preventative care, which could include mental health counseling, meeting with genetic counselors to better understand cancer risks and seeking out nutritional and exercise physiologists at Hoag who can keep people on the path of good health.
Self-care can take many forms, including practices like acupuncture, yoga, and annual wellness exams. It’s important for women to embrace this idea, as caring for ourselves means being attentive to our bodies, seeking preventive services, and nurturing healthy habits in our diet, exercise, and sleep. Remember, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a gentle way to support our overall well-being.
