Love Yourself, For a better lifestyle…!

Bringing about a positive change in your life is the key to improving your mind and relationships. As women, our lives may seem extremely tough at times, with the majority of our time spent actively working for the well-being of everyone around us—which is also the most beautiful role that we play. We’re always present in some form or the other—either as a sister, daughter, or a mother.

According to Parker Palmer, “Self-care is never a selfish act. It is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put to offer others.”

Therefore, as a woman, it is crucial that you take out the time for yourself today to work towards a healthier and more positive you. Here are a few steps to help you:

1. Firstly, your health should be your number one priority. Get a full medical checkup annually and don’t forget to mention any strange or unusual symptoms to your doctor.
2. The time, care, and money spent today will pay you back in future. If possible, note your problem before seeing a doctor. Endeavour to have the following basic investigations carried out, not missing anything:
   • Complete blood counts
   • Urine routine investigation
   • Blood sugar
   • Ultrasound (abdomen and pelvic)
   • Chest x-ray
   • Pap smear (for women)
   • Breast examination and mammography
   • If you’re 40 years old and above, check your family history for ovary, breast, and uterine cancer
   • If you’ve had history of surgery, then hepatitis B and C screening should be done
   • Any lump, weight loss, tiredness, loss of appetite, cough for more than weeks, or history of abnormal bleeding through vagina should be reported for future investigation
   • Be positive and pamper yourself
3. Try to focus on the more positive aspects of life. Learn to forgive yourself as well as the people around you. Be grateful for what you have and what you don’t have.
4. Ensure you give quality time to yourself. This could include light exercises, yoga, and meditation that also help relieve stress. Sleep more.
5. Comfort yourself—i.e., do at least one thing in a day that makes you happy. It could be spending time with an old friend, watching your favorite programs, or reading.
6. Eat healthy—eat a handful of dry fruits daily. Have more green vegetables, fruits, and foods that contain less refined sugar.
7. Believe in yourself and always be a good learner.

Dr. Ayesha Azam Khan