Self-care means making time to do things that benefit your overall health. But with life being so busy, this isn’t always easy. Thankfully, small daily actions often do the most good. Here are four self-care activities that help keep your mind and body strong.

1. Exercise. Just 30 minutes per day of moderate-intensity exercise can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Walking, cycling or swimming are all great options.

2. Spend time in nature. Whether walking in a tree-lined neighbourhood or having a picnic at your local park, getting out in nature (and soaking up vitamin D) can result in better sleep and increased happiness. But before you head out, make sure you protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

3. Make time to socialize. Carving out one-on-one time with your partner or inviting family and friends over for a meal can boost self-esteem, lower anxiety and improve emotional regulation.

4. Start journaling. Writing can be a powerful tool to help you cope with stress and reflect on the positive things in your life. It can also trigger physical health benefits, like quicker illness recovery and lower blood pressure.

As a CAA Member, you and your loved ones have access to Maple so you can put your health first in the most convenient way possible. Maple is a virtual care platform with Canadian-licensed health care providers who treat common health concerns like colds, flus, sore throats and infections online, in minutes.

This means, you don’t have to wait to see a doctor or need an appointment after hours and you don’t have to wait at the walk-in clinic or emergency room. Instead, you can see a health care provider anytime, anywhere, 24/7 for health advice, prescriptions, lab requisitions and more.

Register for your Maple benefit in minutes today.

Register Now!

Terms & Conditions

These tips originally appeared in Maple’s medically-reviewed blog: 10 self-care tips for your overall wellness