Virgil, an ancient Roman poet, once said that “the greatest wealth is health,” and centuries later, his words still ring true. Your health is one of the most important parts of life. Your physical, mental, and emotional health all impact you in various ways. You need to be healthy to be able to perform successfully at work each day.

As squareship owner Nate Robertson said, “Healthy mind, healthy heart, happy career. That’s what it takes to perform like the best.” Far too often we are willing to sacrifice our well-being. But, now's the time to put yourself front and center! With 2018 around the corner, now is a good time to start adopting new habits. Here are 5 self-care practices that you’ll want to immediately turn into daily habits.

1. Value You

During those rough patches, we can easily lose sight of the brilliance that we have inside of us. Whether you didn't get that job you applied for or if you're dealing with stress at home, life has a good way of knocking us down. When times take a turn for the worse, the best thing you can do is turn to yourself. Self-care is all about knowing your self-worth and your value. Keep your self-confidence and self-esteem in check by:

• Writing down a compliment about yourself each day

• Focusing on the positive

• Avoiding negative self-talk

• Surrounding yourself with a supportive network

No matter how many lemons are being tossed your way, always know that you're worth it, you're important, and that you'll get through these turbulent times.

2. Practice Healthy Lifestyle Choices

The choices you make day in and day out have a huge impact on your health and wellness. One of the best self-care practices to make a habit is to eat a balanced diet. A solid diet keeps you healthy inside and out. While it’s okay to indulge here and there, focus on eating quality foods such as green vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for each meal. These days you can use Instagram and other social media sites to find mouth-watering yet healthy recipes.

Exercise is also an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise not only gets your blood going and helps with weight management, it also boosts your mood, strengthens your body, and reduces your risk of certain health problems. Make exercise an integral part of your day by taking 20 minutes to dance, airbox, or take a walk around the community.

3. Take Time to Relax

For those busy-bodies in the world, we know this is easier said than done. Working 10 hour days, taking care of the family, and staying on schedule all take a toll on our bodies. After a hard day at work, we all need some time to unwind and relax both physically and mentally. Spend an hour soaking in a hot bath with relaxing music. Not only will soaking relax you, it will also improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce any aches and pains.

Not a bath person? Consider trying meditation, yoga, reading, or knitting. The important part here is to indulge in an activity that allows you to just be. No worries, no stress, just relaxation in its truest form.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

According to the Harvard Medical School, Americans spend 90% of their lives indoors. As we age, we're even less interested in the idea venturing out and getting in touch with nature. While we may not always have time to sit outside, the fact is that we really do. Have work to finish? Bring your laptop outside! Rather spend hours on social networks? Grab a blanket and go sit in the park, with your phone of course!

Being in the outdoors has numerous benefits including:

• Improved mood

• Increased vitamin D levels

• Better concentration

Spending half an hour sitting outside and breathing in fresh air will do your mind and body great good. If you’re feeling up to the task, head out on a nature hike! Take in natural scenery and enjoy a small piece of what Mother Nature has to offer.

5. Try New Things

The idea of trying new things is either exciting or fear-inducing, depending on your personality. But, venturing out of your normal and doing something different can boost your attitude and confidence. Try sparking a conversation with someone you wouldn’t otherwise talk to. Try a new food that you’ve always avoided. Or cross something off your list that you’ve wanted to do but never made time for. Trying new things allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment. It may also open your eyes to new hobbies!

Conclusion

We all lead busy lives. From work to school to keeping the family in check, it’s hard to find time to nurture ourselves. To continue to be the best version of you from morning until night, practice these 5 self-care tips. You won’t regret it!