Self-Care

“An empty lantern provides no light. Self-care is the fuel that allows your light to shine brightly.” –unknown.

Self-care is a vital part of your recipe to success and longevity. One of the ways you can start practicing self-care is having good personal hygiene habits, especially within the workplace. Personal hygiene may be described as the principle of maintaining cleanliness and grooming of the external body. Failure to keep up a standard of hygiene can have many implications. Not only is there an increased risk of getting an infection or illness, but there are many social and psychological aspects that can be affected. If you want to minimize your risk of infection and also enhance your overall health, follow these basic personal hygiene habits:

Having a clean and refreshing appearance shows others that you really take care of yourself. This can be observed by how clean you appear, how you smell and how your clothes look. 

It is important to shower at least once daily to prevent odor from occurring or becoming noticeable. Rather than avoiding stressful situations that can contribute to stress and sweating, wearing a deodorant will help prevent odor from developing if your body temperature begins to rise. Keep your scalp clean by shampooing often. Avoid bad breath by brushing after every meal.  If you practice regular, good hygiene, you increase your self-esteem and how others view you. 

If someone you know hasn’t bathed or appears unkempt, it could be a sign that he or she is depressed. When people are sad or depressed, it is a sign that they are neglecting themselves. In your discussions, be candid but sensitive and understanding. Despite your best efforts, your friend or loved one may need professional help. You should encourage them to see a counselor or doctor if their personal hygiene doesn’t improve.


~Loraine DeCoteau