Written by: Shaniece Benson, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Let's talk about something we often overlook in the hustle and bustle of our professional lives: self-care. It's not just about bubble baths and scented candles (although those are nice too!), but rather about intentional practices that can enhance our well-being and performance at work.
1. Prioritize your zzz's
Okay, I know what you're thinking – "I'll sleep when I'm retired, right?" But hear me out. Quality sleep is like a secret weapon for productivity. Trust me, I've been there – burning the midnight oil, only to feel groggy and unfocused the next day. Research shows that getting enough shut-eye not only boosts cognitive function but also improves mood and creativity. So, let's make a pact to prioritize those precious Zzz's, even if it means hitting the hay a little earlier.
2. Mindfulness moments
Life moves pretty fast, doesn't it? With deadlines looming and emails piling up, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's where mindfulness comes in. Taking just a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and be present can work wonders for our stress levels and mental clarity. Whether it's a quick meditation session or simply savoring your morning coffee without distractions, find what works for you and make it a daily habit.
3. Move your body, boost your brain
I get it – finding time to exercise when your schedule is packed can feel like mission impossible. But here's the thing: physical activity isn't just about fitting into those jeans – it's also about keeping our brains sharp and our moods lifted. So, whether it's a lunchtime walk, a yoga class, or a quick HIIT workout in your living room, find ways to move your body that you actually enjoy.
4. Break time = self-care time
Raise your hand if you're guilty of eating lunch at your desk or powering through without taking breaks. Yep, me too. But studies show that taking regular breaks throughout the day can actually make us more productive and less stressed. So, let's commit to stepping away from our screens, even if it's just for a few minutes. Trust me, your brain – and your sanity – will thank you for it.
5. Lean on your tribe
We're not meant to go through this crazy journey called life alone. Building strong relationships with colleagues, friends, and family members can provide us with the support and encouragement we need to thrive – both personally and professionally. So, don't be afraid to lean on your tribe when times get tough or when you just need a listening ear.
Self-care isn't selfish – it's essential, especially for us hardworking adults juggling multiple hats. By incorporating these personalized self-care strategies into our daily routines, we can cultivate a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling work-life balance. So, here's to taking care of ourselves – because we deserve it.
Shaniece Benson, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Shaniece is a High-Performance Fitness & Lifestyle Coach who empowers busy professionals to step into success through her 1:1 fitness training & lifestyle coaching. Featured in Southern New Hampshire University, SDVoyager, SHOUTOUT SOCAL, and Zovio for her unique and effective ways of tackling limiting beliefs and creating a new regime to feel good from the inside out.
Inspired by a drive to change the narrative of familial history connected to a variety of health conditions, Shaniece began to change some habits and fall in love with fitness. In doing so, she noticed a dramatic shift not only in her physical but also in her mental health. With her energy levels soaring and confidence boosted, Shaniece wanted to shout from the rooftops how incredibly great this all felt; and how simple it could be for others to do the same.
Thus, BloombyShaniece was born, a blog specifically designed to share content that would help women grow and embrace their true potential. She later began to work with professionals from an array of backgrounds in helping them not only to lose weight but also to encourage them to live an all-around healthier lifestyle. With training and coaching sessions specifically tailored to individual needs, Shaniece empowers her clients by informing, supporting, and celebrating them in making big changes as they embark on the journey of living their best lives.
