Healthier 901: The importance of self-care
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – The secret to overall wellness starts upstairs.
Studies show a healthier mind is key to a healthier body.
“If you’re struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, you’re a lot less likely to want to engage in things that help your overall physical health,” Jared Davis, a counselor with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare said.
Davis says one of the best mental health interventions is actually getting up and moving your body.
“A lot of people have a really good cathartic feeling after lifting weights or going for a run or even after doing a group exercise class that isn’t necessarily high impact,” Davis said.
Studies show adults with a history of depression develop long-term physical health conditions like tension, muscle aches and soreness about 30% faster than those without depression.
Davis recommends self-care days–incorporating stress reducers like reading, word puzzles or even coloring.
He also encourages talking it out with experts.
“It’s not always about escaping the emotion or getting away from feeling something. Emotions are healthy; they’re good for us–they’re trying to help us.“
The Healthier 901 app has quick links to community resources to keep you motivated as well as exercises to “center” yourself, like chair yoga and at-home Pilates.
No matter where you start, Davis says a healthy mind is the key to achieving a Healthier 901.
“Life experiences are like bricks. They can be really heavy, cause a lot of stress, but only you get to determine if you are going to carry them or build with them.“
The Healthier 901 fun begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at Shelby Farms Park, with fitness and cooking demos, music, and giveaways until 2 p.m.
To learn more about Healthier 901, click here.
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