With the stress of the pandemic, we’ve all been in survivor mode for well over a year, and it’s beginning to show. People are worn out, edgy, and frazzled. We’ve lost our ability to do the things that are good for us. It’s almost like we’ve forgotten how.
It’s important that we all start taking better care of ourselves again. It’s not necessary to make big changes. Trying to make sweeping changes in your life can actually be more stressful. Taking small incremental steps toward better self-care is more realistic and far more likely to become a habit.
Make 2022 a Good Year
If you start now, good self-care habits will be firmly established in the new year. 2020 and 2021 have seemed to blur together into one dumpster fire of a year. But 2022 can be different! As we approach the Year of the Tiger, let’s make self-care a priority. After all, if you aren’t well and happy, you can’t fully take care of those around you.
But where to start? Just look around you.
Midtown Manhattan Dentist Dr. Chavez offers Self-Care Tips
Accessing self-care in NYC is easier than you would think. Pick a point anywhere in the city, and chances are there is something nearby to help you take care of yourself. And if you visit local businesses, you are uplifting and supporting your community as well as taking care of yourself.
Let’s take a virtual walk with Dr. Chavez close to our midtown Manhattan dentist office and visit some of his favorite places.
Bookstores and Libraries
Libraries! Free books! Strapped for cash? Get a library card and read as much as you want. Many libraries are hooked up to the Libby app so that once you are a member, you can check out books from home for your e-reader.
The big chain bookstores can be great if you need to rush in, grab a book, and leave. But they aren’t exactly relaxing. How much better to amble through a smaller bookstore and take your time to choose the perfect book.
The Argosy Bookstore – a booklovers dream! Founded in 1925, it is now in its third generation of family ownership. Many of the shelves are so crammed with books, they have resorted to stacking books on the floor.
Chartwell Booksellers – The world’s only Winston Churchill bookshop is minutes away from our office! Maybe you’re not into Mr. Churchill, but this proves you can find just about anything in NYC.
Museums
NYC has so many museums, and many New Yorkers have never set foot in one. They are often quiet and lovely places to reflect and take in something beautiful. We’re lucky that The Museum of Modern Art is only a 15-minute stroll from our office.
The Met Cloisters isn’t exactly in our neighborhood, but it’s too good not to mention.
Ice Cream
Dr. Chavez’s twins would argue that ice cream is self-care, and we would have to agree! (Even though we should probably be talking about the dangers of sugar for your teeth. Compromise: eat ice cream and make sure to brush well.)
A La Mode – If you’re going to eat ice cream, it ought to be artisanal ice cream handcrafted with care, right? The twins love the sweet treats here. (And so does Dr. Chavez.)
Fashion
Sure, we’ve all been hanging out in sweats and pjs, and that’s great for at home, but we’ve got to up our game when we step outside. That’s why Dr. Chavez counts on Harold Waight – a fashion expert who elevates your image.
Parks
Sometimes we NEED green space or to sit in the shade of a tree. Some parks are quiet, while others are filled with little kids laughing and having fun. Both are good for you. Find your favorite park close to your home or work. We challenge you!
Facials
A Blue Line Dental team favorite! How do you think they all stay looking so fresh? Try out Facials By Bonnie.
Get a massage. Visit a spa. Buy a nice foot cream and pamper your feet. Light a candle and take a few minutes to breathe slowly. Do whatever you can to take time for yourself.
Teeth Whitening
Yes, teeth whitening counts as self-care if it makes you feel good about yourself! If you want to brighten that beautiful smile of yours, give us a call or visit our midtown Manhattan dentist office anytime.
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. It’s the fuel that gets you through your day and makes you want to get out of bed in the morning. You’re important. Take gentle care of yourself. You may inspire others to do the same.
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