Hygiene refers to the daily routines, skills, and habits that we engage in to maintain good health. According to the Oxford Dictionary, hygiene is defined as "practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease." Essentially, anything you do to take care of yourself in a healthy way could fall under your definition of hygiene practices.
However, it's important to remember that hygiene isn't just limited to physical health. We also need to take care of our emotional well-being through emotional hygiene. When was the last time you brushed and flossed your "emotional teeth?" Neglecting our emotional hygiene can be just as detrimental to our overall health as neglecting our physical hygiene.
Emotional hygiene involves practices that help us manage our emotions and maintain good mental health. These practices could include journaling, practicing mindfulness, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or engaging in activities that bring us joy and relaxation. Just as we brush our teeth to prevent cavities and wash our hands to prevent the spread of germs, we need to take steps to prevent emotional wounds from festering and causing long-term damage to our mental health.
The good news is that emotional cavities can be repaired and prevented, but it requires prioritizing emotional hygiene. Emotional hygiene is often overlooked in our fast-paced, technologically-driven society. However, it is one of the best ways to improve your life. By promoting resilience, confidence, and emotional health, emotional hygiene builds awareness of your feelings and needs. It also helps you create healthier communication with yourself and others.
It's important to note that emotional hygiene looks different for everyone. For some, it could be journaling, meditating, or taking a mindful moment to settle their thoughts. Others may find cleaning out their email, intentionally connecting with others, or seeking support as helpful emotional hygiene practices. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your creativity and willingness to explore.
It's time to take emotional hygiene seriously. Neglecting it can lead to painful emotional cavities, but prioritizing it can lead to tremendous benefits for your overall well-being.
To get started, think of just one thing you can add to your daily routine that tends to your emotional needs. It doesn't have to be complicated or perfect - just pick something and do it. And if you don't like it, try something different tomorrow.
The key is to explore what works for you and meets your needs. But remember, not all emotional hygiene practices are created equal. Just like with physical hygiene, the effort you put in directly correlates to the benefit you get out. Be mindful of your focus and intention. It's time to start taking care of your emotional hygiene. Good luck. Remember that you can do it, and it's okay to ask for help! |
About the Author Tom Hill is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, specializing in the treatment and resolution of trauma and attachment wounding. With almost 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Tom understands the profound impact negative experiences can have on a person's thoughts, emotions, and body. He firmly believes that trauma is treatable and that everyone has the potential to heal and grow. |