Making self-care a priority, even now

Now more than ever, physicians need to be practicing self-care so they can continue to care for others. Here are four things you can do to take care of yourself — but pick just one to focus on for the next 30 days.

• Mindfulness: For example, practice mindful meditation for 10 minutes every morning. For those interested, the meditation app Headspace is offering free access for health care professionals through the end of the year.

• Healthy eating: For example, consume at least seven fruits or vegetables daily.

• Exercise: For example, walk three times per week for 30 minutes.

• Sleep: For example, get at least seven hours of sleep every night.

Denying physical needs is sometimes a badge of honor in medicine, but it also contributes to an empty tank and can negatively affect your ability to care for others. Do something to care for yourself today.

Read the full FPM article: “Caring for Me Is Caring for You: The Power of Physician Self-Care and Personal Transformation.”