What Does Self-Care Look Like? Highlands Cashiers Hospital

Issue: March 2023

Tom Neal RN, MBA, MHA

“Self-care” is a buzzword that is often used these days, but what does it really mean? 

As we look to the arrival of spring, many of us contemplate what we can do to care for our bodies and minds better so both our physical and mental health are supported — myself included. 

Some of the things I think about that can be considered good self-care strategies are as simple as following through on your commitment to getting routine healthcare, like your yearly wellness exam and important screenings, such as colonoscopies and mammograms. 

Next, everyday practices such as eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy, lean proteins like chicken and fish, beans and seeds, and healthy fats, are also hugely supportive of your health and reduce the risk of serious health conditions, like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Self-care strategies that support your mental and spiritual health are also important. Discoveries have been made about what boosts our mental health, and since many sources declare that many Americans are suffering from mental health struggles, these steps go a long way to enhance your mood and outlook.

We experienced widespread isolation during the Pandemic. Many discovered or revisited the peace that being in nature brings, whether that’s taking a bike ride, running through a trail on one of our beautiful mountains, or power walking with your dog.

Living in this age of information overload takes its toll as well. 

Taking a break from the constant influx of information is critical. Giving yourself a rest from the Internet or scrolling through social media can do your brain a world of good. 

Our surroundings also contribute to both our physical and mental health. Try to ensure your home or workplace office is set up in an ergonomically smart way and check your posture and try to avoid slouching. Getting up and moving around every half-hour or so and using a standing desk can also help guard against sitting for most of the day. 

Finally, spiritual well-being can also support your health. Faith and meditation encourage a gratitude-based mindset as well. Studies have also revealed that spiritual individuals develop better coping skills, experience reduced levels of depression, anxiety, and suicide, and even enjoy longer lives.

Some of these self-care strategies may surprise you, but they all offer real advantages, and they’re doable. For 2023, think about how we can take some of these ideas and put them into practice for a healthier life.

Before I close, I wanted to announce the arrival of our newest surgeon, Dr. James Osborne to the Highlands-Cashiers community and more specifically Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. 

Dr. James Osborne

Dr. Osborne is a board-certified general surgeon/endoscopy, who is fellowship trained in hand surgery from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He has begun seeing patients at the Mission Community Primary Care – Cashiers clinic on the second Friday of each month from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and operating at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Dr. Osborne is now accepting new patients. To make an appointment, contact Mission Community Primary Care – Cashiers at (828) 743-2491.

We at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital pledge to continue doing our part to support and enhance your health, whether you come to us for routine care or need to make an unexpected visit to the Emergency Department. We’re committed to caring for you.