How to Find Your Best Health as a Nurse | Health Care Staffing of Tennessee, Inc.

Have you already settled into a new routine for 2018? Well, our team at Health Care Staffing of Tennessee, Inc. wants to make sure that “new routine” includes plenty of focus on your own health, even while you’re caring for others.

Making Your Health a Priority

When you’re at work, you’re focused on your patients. When you’re at home, your family is your priority. When does that leave time for you?

In order to provide care for others in your life, you first have to care for yourself. Let’s take a look at some ways to do just that.

First, you have to fit in exercise. Working in a healthcare setting day in and day out, you know first-hand how important exercise is to your health. Isn’t it time you practice what you preach? The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least five days a week.

If you can’t work out for 30 minutes straight, then try breaking it up to three 10-minute sweat sessions a day. And if you can’t fit in exercise at all one day, then exercise a little longer the next. Every bit counts!

Second, make sure you’re getting plenty of quality sleep. As nurses, shift schedules can change at various times throughout the year. But regardless of the shift you’re working, you need to aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep each day. Set yourself up for quality sleep by keeping your bedroom cool, turning electronics off about an hour or so before bedtime, and limiting caffeine in the hours before going to sleep.

Finally, be sure you take a mental break when you can. Whether you choose coloring or meditation or reading a good book, giving your brain a break can help you get mentally ready for your next shift. Being a nurse can bring many emotional moments. It’s important you take as much care of your mental health as you do your physical health.

Are you looking to join a team that allows you the opportunity to have flexible hours so that your health can be a priority, too? Contact Health Care Staffing of Tennessee, Inc. today!