By guest writer Melissa Howard
When you’re an introvert, recharging looks a little different. Instead of socializing with friends and family after a long week, you prefer to spend time alone until you’re back to 100%. That can make self-care challenging, especially when trying to balance your personal needs with your social and professional life.
These are three tech-based tips you can use to make the most of your alone time so you recharge quickly and can get back to business.
First up, get your healthcare in order
Going to the doctor can be draining, especially if you have to navigate confusing insurance benefits every time. But no matter how much you’d prefer to skip medical appointments, they’re a must for maintaining your physical and mental well-being. (Don’t worry: These days, many doctors let you schedule online.)
Keep doctor’s visits simple by studying up on your insurance benefits before scheduling an appointment. By reviewing your policy, you can be confident that your physician is in-network and that your services are covered. Medicare patients have it easy since Original Medicare doesn’t limit you to a network, although you might be surprised at some services that aren’t covered. Consider getting a Medicare Advantage plan if you’re looking to get extra benefits like vision and dental coverage.
Track your nutrition
You don’t need to subscribe to diet culture to look after your nutrition — in fact, it’s better if you don’t. Short-term diets aren’t effective because, without sustainable eating habits, you’ll eventually revert to the same eating habits that caused you to gain weight. Some fad diets can even be dangerous.
If you want to lose weight, adopting healthy eating habits that you enjoy is the best way to do it. Many people find tracking their nutrition helpful, whether they’re trying to lose weight or just eat healthier. Nutrition tracking apps like MyFitnessPal let you see beyond the calorie to track macronutrients and micronutrients. It’s the best way to know if you’re coming up short so you can adjust by changing your diet or adding a supplement. While food is the best source of nutrition, even healthy eaters have trouble getting enough vitamins and minerals every day. A multivitamin fills the gaps so your body gets the nutrition it needs no matter what, along with various health benefits like more energy, improved gut health, and better skin.
Workout solo
If you’re an introvert, group fitness classes might seem like your worst nightmare. But even if you don’t enjoy going to the gym, you need exercise. Exercise makes you smarter, happier, and more energized, and that’s just the beginning of what exercise does for your body and mind.
There’s a lot of exercise you can do solo, from high-intensity workouts in your living room and backyard to running, hiking, and cycling. If you are heading out on the road or trails by yourself, play it safe and tell someone where you’re going. It might be a good idea to get a fitness tracker or smartwatch, too: No longer just for step tracking, the latest smartwatches include safety features like ECG, fall detection, and an emergency alert system.
Self-care doesn’t have to fit a cookie-cutter mold. If yoga classes and spa days aren’t your style, you still have plenty of options for practicing self-care. From the basic stuff like finally scheduling that doctor appointment to the daily habits that keep you healthy, there’s a lot you can do to look after your health in your own time.
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