Take Care of Yourself in 2024
Most of us start the New Year off by declaring a New Year’s Resolution! This is a yearly tradition, in which the person declares to change or improve something. This is the year I think we all should declare that we will make an effort take care of our self better and practice Self-care. Self-Care is defined in the dictionary as the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness!
Some people think self- care is synonymous with being self-centered and selfish, this is simply not true! Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. It can also improve concentration, increase happiness, and improve energy. It is important to take care of yourself, so that you can do all the things you need and want to do.
In Cayuga County we are lucky to have many options to help you in your quest for a healthier self in body, mind, and spirit!
The experts in self-care and healthy living suggest that the below activities can help you reduce stress, get healthier and generally live a healthier life.
Hiking… activity of going for long walks, especially in the country or woods
Hiking reduces your mind’s propensity to “ruminate” — a word psychologists use to describe negative, self-focused patterns of thought linked to anxiety and depression.
In addition to the mental health benefits, hiking is a great form of physical activity/exercise. According to the CDC, physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to improve your overall health. 150 minutes a week, that’s only 20 minutes a day of aerobic activity can put you at a lower risk for heart disease and stroke. Another benefit of hiking or taking a walk is that exercise doesn’t feel exercise when you are marveling at the beautiful scenery and breathing in the fresh brisk air!
Cayuga County is full of wonderful hiking trails to explore some complete with waterfalls and swimming holes! Check out Fillmore Glen, Sterling Nature Center… click here to discover more places to explore.
Yoga… focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body
Yoga’s benefits are both physical and mental. Physical because yoga can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility. Mentally because it strengthens emotional resilience so that we can effectively deal with the stresses that occur in our everyday lives. In Auburn, The Zen Den, and The Center both offer yoga sessions as well as drop in classes.
Spa Days… indulge in treatments that improve body, mind, and spirit.
The ultimate in self-care is indulging in a spa day! Who’s ready for a little pampering? The Spa at the Inns of Aurora is the perfect place for a full day of indulgence. Situated on the crest of the hill above Aurora with stunning views of Cayuga Lake, this farm-inspired spa campus is dedicated to a holistic approach to wellness, with two hydrotherapy circuits, therapeutic treatments designed and delivered by Rasa Spa, and a seasonally inspired café. This is a place you will want to spend the whole day at!
The Center in Auburn NY very unique spa whose goal is to help you achieve your goals and live your best life ever. The Center integrates Eastern and Western approaches to healthcare, while embracing the need for prevention by providing services for pure relaxation and rejuvenation in a spa setting.
For more information about spas in the area, click here.
A Hibercation may be just the thing! It’s one part vacation, one part hibernation and 100% good for the soul!
Enjoy some guilt-free downtime and escape the day-to-day pressures of work and home. Experts agree that when you take time away from the stresses of work and daily life, you improve both your physical and mental health. This philosophy is what lies at the heart of Hibercation. After the hectic holiday season, you deserve to treat yourself or a special someone in your life to a well-deserved getaway. Embrace the spirit of relaxation and indulge in wellness-inspired travel with a Hibercation! Click here for more information.
However, you choose to recharge, relax and renew, you can find what you are looking for in Cayuga County NY.