Guest post by: Brad Krause, owner and writer for http://selfcaring.info

Are you getting ready to make a big change in your life? Life changes, like going back to school, starting a new job or beginning addiction recovery, can create positive personal growth. But making major adjustments to your life can be stressful as well. That’s why it is essential to make self-care a part of your big journey. Wondering how to keep up with your self-care while gearing up for a major change in your life? Here are few ideas to help you out:

Fuel Yourself With Healthy Foods and Exercise

Whatever life has coming your way, you need to be strong to handle it. You need positive energy to enjoy positive change, so try to stick to a healthy diet and exercise plan. Even simple physical activity helps your body produce more energy while encouraging the production of positive chemicals in your brain. Healthy foods can also help fuel your transformation. Try meal prepping to help yourself stay on track, especially when your schedule gets tighter. Exercising and eating right can be very beneficial to those recovering from addiction, but will keep your body strong no matter what big change is ahead.

Contemplate Change Through Mindfulness

Going through a major transition can leave you with so many different thoughts. Make the most of your personal growth by staying mindful every step of the way. Take the time to savor each step of this big journey and learn to live in the moment. Take in the sights, sounds and emotions of each new experience. One of the most fundamental forms of mindfulness is meditation, something you can easily practice each day. Set up a quiet space in your home to escape from the world for a few moments. Focus on your breath and clear your mind to make the most of your meditation practice. Some of the most influential people in the world use meditation to stay healthy under pressure, so make it a part of your big life change too.

Know The Importance of Good Sleep

When you’re getting ready for a major life change, life can get hectic. You may find your schedule filled with new activities and your routine thrown off track for a while. Just be sure that sleep is the one thing in your life you’re not sacrificing. You need sleep to fend off stress and keep your mind clear. Some research suggests that lack of sleep is just as impairing as drinking alcohol, and you don’t want this simple self-care step to keep you from your success, so craft your evening habits to encourage good sleep hygiene. Turn off those screens after dinner and wind down with a calming hobby instead. When you’re ready to turn in for the night, darken your bedroom as much as possible and use a noise machine to help you drift off into dreamland more quickly.

Reward Yourself With Self-Care

 Any major life change requires some serious work on your end. Make sure you reward yourself for all that effort by indulging in some relaxing forms of self-care! Schedule a soothing yoga class a few times a week or steep stress away with a warm, bubbly bath. Treat yourself to a yummy meal or an afternoon with your favorite movies. Looking for an even bigger treat? Book some time at your local spa. Spending time on some serious self-care, like a soak in a hot tub, time in the sauna or a blissful massage is a wonderful way to celebrate your personal growth milestones.  Whatever makes you happy, find some time to dedicate to yourself. You deserve it after all your hard work!

Self-care is important at any stage of life, but it can definitely take the stress out of big life changes. By focusing on yourself, you can be sure your transition is filled with personal growth and opportunities for positive improvements. So, be sure to make self-care a priority as you complete this journey, and through every step of your life.