It is said that to take care of others, you need to take care of yourself first, which is more than true in the case of nurses.
As a nurse, you spend most of your time with patients. This means you must take extra care of yourself to continue caring for your patients and avoid any medical error that may be fatal.
However, with a hectic routine and many things on your plate, we know this is easier said than done. How about we tell you some easy-to-follow ways of improving your health and fitness without spending much time?
This article will share some ways of staying healthy while keeping up with your demanding routine.
So, without any further ado, let us get to the topic and explore it in detail.
1. Get Some Time Out for Yourself
No matter how busy you are, it is important to pamper yourself and get some ‘me time.’ Set aside a few hours weekly that you spend doing what you love.
This could be anything like watching a movie, reading a book listening to music, spending time outdoors in nature, going out with friends, having a spa session, etc.
Whatever it is, make sure you relax and recharge yourself. It is very important and with your profession, unwinding yourself is essential if you want to function properly.
2. Keep the learning spirit alive
Nurses are in high demand and often need continuing education to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. Online study programs offer a convenient and affordable way to get the education you need.
There are several online study programs available. Some programs are general in focus, while others are more specific to nursing, such as PMHNP programs. PMHNP certificate programs online help you acquire the required academic certifications while continuing your routine.
One of the best things about online study programs is that you can choose the program that best fits your needs. Some programs are self-paced, while others have structured modules. You can also choose to study full-time or part-time.
Continuing learning will help nurses to escape the mundane routine, keeping them fit and healthy.
3. Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet
You are what you eat, and this is exactly what happens when you eat a balanced and healthy diet – you stay healthy and away from illnesses. With a routine as demanding as yours, we know that grabbing a sandwich with a can of Coke seems much easier than cooking at home.
We don’t blame you but think for a minute, do you think Coke and a sandwich will provide you with all the essential nutrients? You are a nurse and know better than anyone else what we are talking about.
Instead, if you take some time to properly plan things out, it will be much easier for you. Here are some tips to add proper nutrition to your routine;
- Eat a good breakfast
- Stay away from unhealthy junk food
- Keep granola bars, nuts, and sliced fruit for snacks
- keep veggies to make quick lunch and dinner
These are some ways to ensure you get a proper and balanced diet.
4. Drink Water and Stay Hydrated
Drinking water and staying hydrated are important. Water is essential for all living things. It is necessary for all body functions to perform optimally and maintain a healthy weight.
A person’s daily water intake can range from 2 to 8 cups. Nurses need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy. Because they work extended shifts, it is quite common for them to forget about their water intake.
This could cause dehydration and other issues. Keep a bottle of water with you, and make it a point to drink water mindfully. This will help you stay active and ready for your work.
5. Add Short Yoga Sessions in Your Routine
There is growing evidence that yoga may be beneficial for nurses.
Yoga is an ancient practice that incorporates meditation and slow body movements.
These movements relax the muscles and make them flexible. Because nurses have to stand and walk a lot during their shifts, a short 15 to 20-minute yoga session helps relax their minds and body.
Some benefits of yoga for nurses include reducing stress, improving mood and mental health, improving sleep, reducing anxiety and depression, and improving physical health. When practiced regularly, yoga can positively impact nurses’ overall well-being.
6. Get a Good Amount of Sleep
Nurses are constantly on their feet and need to be alert and responsive to patients’ needs. While nurses need no definitive amount of sleep, good sleep is important for overall health and well-being.
Adults need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Nurses need to get enough exercise and relaxation time.
Sleep provides much-needed relaxation both to the mind and body. This is why, no matter which shifts you are working, it is important that you take a good amount of sleep.
7. Wear Compression Stockings to Keep the Blood Flowing
Wearing compression stockings has many benefits for nurses. They can help to support blood flow and reduce swelling and inflammation. They can also help to prevent varicose veins and other leg problems.
When you are a nurse, it is important to wear compression stockings to help with your blood flow and to help with your overall health.
Wearing compression stockings can help with your circulation, help with your energy level, and help with your overall health. Because of extended time on their feet, nurses often struggle with painful varicose veins.
Compression stockings help regulate the blood flow in your lower legs.
Final Thoughts
Nurses are pivotal in providing the required care to patients. They are an important part of any healthcare team. Not only do they provide care for patients, but they also work to promote and maintain healthy lifestyles for their patients.
Nurses are important for the prevention and treatment of many diseases and injuries. They also work to provide support and education to patients and their families.
They are essential members of any healthcare team and always need qualified candidates. Therefore, as a nurse, it is important that you take care of yourself.