Taking Care of You: Self-Care Tips That Support Mind and Body

Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s an important part of staying healthy, balanced, and emotionally strong. Whether you’re caring for family, working long hours, or managing life’s daily stress, taking time for yourself helps you show up with more energy and resilience.

At STRIDE Community Health Center, we believe self-care should feel accessible, realistic, and personal. Here are simple ways to care for your mind and body, even on busy days.

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Start With the Basics: Rest, Nourishment & Movement

You don’t need spa days or long breaks to support your well-being.

Begin by strengthening the foundations:

1. Prioritize Sleep

Aim for a consistent bedtime, limit screens before sleep, and create a calming night routine.Quality rest supports your mood, immune system, and focus.

2. Nourish Your Body

Choose meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and plenty of water.Small choices throughout the day help you feel better inside and out.

3. Move Your Body

Even 5–10 minutes of movement, stretching, walking, dancing, can relieve stress and lift your mood.

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Practice Small Moments of Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you pause, breathe, and connect to the present moment, especially when life feels overwhelming.

Try:

• Deep breathing exercises

• Short guided meditations

• A quiet cup of tea or coffee

• Sitting outside for a few minutes

• A slow walk without distractions

  
  

These small pauses can reset your mind and reduce stress.

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Set Boundaries With Your Time & Energy

Protecting your energy is an important part of self-care.

This might look like:

• Saying “no” when needed

• Limiting overwhelming commitments

• Taking breaks throughout the day

• Asking for help instead of pushing through

Your time and emotional space matter.

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Stay Connected With People Who Lift You Up

Healthy relationships support emotional well-being.

Try:

• Talking with friends or family

• Joining a community group

• Reaching out when you need support

• Spending more time with people who feel positive and grounding

Connection is one of the strongest forms of self-care.

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Do Things That Bring You Joy

Self-care doesn’t need to be productive — it can simply feel good.

Try:

• Reading

• Listening to music

• Gardening

• Creative hobbies

• Watching a favorite show

• Spending time outdoors

  
  

Joy is a powerful part of mental and emotional health.

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Give Yourself Grace

Some days you’ll have energy for self-care, and some days you won’t. That’s okay.

Be gentle with yourself. Progress no matter how small is still progress.

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Reach Out When You Need Support

If stress, sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm become hard to manage, STRIDE’s Behavioral Health team is here to help.

We offer:

• Counseling

• Integrated support during medical visits

• Help managing stress, anxiety, or depression

• Resources for family well-being

• Referrals for long-term support

  
  

Asking for help is one of the strongest forms of self-care.

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STRIDE Supports Your Whole Health

Self-care is just one part of wellness. STRIDE’s care teams work together to support your physical, emotional, and social well-being.

We’re here to help with:

• Primary & Preventive Care

• Behavioral Health

• Women’s Health

• Pediatrics

• Geriatric Medicine

• Chronic condition management

• Community resources

  
  

Your health matters and you deserve care inside and out.

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Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Self-Care Journey?

Start with one small act of care today. STRIDE is here to support the rest.

• Schedule a visit

• Find a STRIDE location

• Connect with Behavioral Health

• Explore Primary & Preventive Care

  
  

Take care of yourself, your body and mind will thank you.