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Self-Care: Maintaining Balance

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6-8 whiteroses
As I traverse this part of my life, I’ve learned that I need to do whatever I can to take care of myself.  To be in balance, both in my body and my life. Self-care. For me that means several things. First and foremost, I eat a vegetarian diet and have done so for over thirty years. Whole foods and a plant-based diet – grains, legumes, soy, fruits, and vegetables – make up my daily food intake. I feel healthier when I eat this way. I feel stronger.

But sometimes I overindulge in sugar. I’ve done that a lot this year. When that happens an imbalance occurs. I gain weight. I feel less than vigorous. I start to see the tell-tale signs that I’ve overdone it. So, I have to get things back in balance. I’ve recently started to eliminate sugar once again.

The same goes for sleep. One of the ways in which I take care of myself is to keep to a regular sleep schedule. I know that I need to be in bed reading a good book by about 10:30 at the latest. I wake up around 6 am, every day. If that schedule is disrupted, which – let’s face it – is going to happen occasionally, my balance is off. I have to correct, to find my balance again.

Self-care is something we all do, whether it has to do with diet, with exercise, with sleep, or with any imbalance in our bodies and our spirits. Fresh air, exercise, a positive attitude, a sense of abundance and thankfulness – all of these things go into creating a balance for ourselves. If basic needs aren’t met or if stress and crazily busy schedules take over our lives, we’re going to need to correct at some point. Just as the pilot of a plane or a boat that has gone off course needs to correct and get back on course.

Sleep. Exercise. Meditation/Mindfulness. Diet. Taking time for oneself. All of those things will contribute to feeling rested, fresh and balanced.

I used to, and still do at times, suffer from yeast infections. I can’t think of a woman I know that hasn’t suffered from that at one time or another. Yeast infections = a body out of balance. I’ve used Monistat® for yeast infections more times than I can count.

And, like every woman out there, I want to feel fresh. I look for products that maintain a feeling of freshness, that eliminate odor. Monistat® to the rescue. They now have a Complete Care™ line, which includes Stay Fresh Gel from Monistat® Complete Care™, a product that helps eliminate feminine odor and restore feminine freshness for three days. It helps maintain vaginal pH, and it’s fragrance and paraben-free.

See? There it is again. Balance.

Are you interested in a coupon? Click here.

Monistat® wants to help you take control of your feminine health. Tell about the way in which you take control and care of your body for a chance to win a $100 Visa Gift Card plus a full-size sample of Stay Fresh Gel from Monistat® Complete Care™. Each comment will automatically be entered for a chance to win. Here are the official rules. 

Good luck, everyone!

I have received product from Monistat® and was compensated to write this review.

Entry Instructions:

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

1. Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post

2. Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: “#SweepstakesEntry”; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post

3. Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post

4. Read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older (or nineteen (19) years of age or older in Alabama and Nebraska). Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 2 business days to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected. If your comment relates to or describes any product or your experience with the product, do not describe or recommend any use of the product that is not recommended on the product’s packaging or labeling, such comments will be deleted.

The Official Rules are available here.

This sweepstakes runs from 6/22/2015 – 7/22/2015

Be sure to visit the Monistat® brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!

Comments

  1. I try eating a healthy diet too, Claudia but I guess we all fall off the wagon sometimes. Monistat has come to my rescue many times. xo Laura

  7. You are right. We have to continually be on the look out that we are properly caring for ourselves. My blood pressure is up again. I’ve never had high blood pressure until this last year. I’ve cancelled my eye surgery and am going back to the internist to see why she thinks this is plaguing me. My recent EKG (is that the right name) showed everything was good so it is something else. I need to fix it before it gets to far off schedule. I hate to be bothered but we are the only ones that be sure that our bodies (and minds) get everything they need to remain healthy.

  10. When I started exercising regularly and stopped eating processed foods is when I began to finally feel healthy.

  11. It’s a good post, Claudia. I need the reminders although I inherently know I’m a bit out of control right now and not in very good balance. I know, but do it anyway to my detriment, that I don’t commit enough hours to sleep. I’ve gotten lax about vitamins and supplements, which is just stupid because I’ve been low on D. I’m mature and should have better discipline about my physical and mental health, but I’m aware of this and keep trying to improve. In my younger years, I would sort of unfairly poke gentle fun at my parents for their strict regimens…their day ran like a clock, with sleeptime, mealtime, relaxtime, work/jobs etc. all in a ‘regular’ routine that worked for them and made their day less stressful. I, on the other hand, broke into a very boho (‘no borders’) style of living once I left their house for good as a very young person, only following the clock because I had to get to work on time. It has caught up with me, I don’t cook, so I don’t plan meals well and, you know, as you age and if you have health issues, and if pills are involved, it’s really important to give your body no surprises. It likes the medications, right food, good sleep and exercise in sensible, measured by-the-clock doses. Moderation and balance and consistency in most things is key, so I endeavor to change my bad habits for good ones. It takes discipline and determination to not slip back into the old ways.

    In terms of the ‘flora-fauna’ of the gut et al, I’ve gone back on daily yogurt (plain, organic, Greek, nonfat). I’d really rather not be taking in bovine by-product but the oral probiotics, even the super-duper ones for ‘over age 50’ just weren’t doing the job in capsule-form and I also am sensitive to soy (as in soy yogurt). Claudia, do share how your ‘vegetarian’ day goes…what would be a day’s meal plan for you. What do you eat? I’ve tried and failed to be a vegetarian so would be so interested in how you’ve done it for 30 years, and if you take extra B vitamins?

  12. I tried to print the coupon, but it didn’t work. The new Monistat products sound very good.

    • I have to remind myself daily to take vitamins (phone alert) and to take care of myself. I eat very little meat and a lot of veggies. I have just recently begun an exercise routine. I tell myself every day to get into a sleeping routine. Working on it.

  14. “Sleep. Exercise. Meditation/Mindfulness. Diet. Taking time for oneself. All of those things will contribute to feeling rested, fresh and balanced.”

    Although I am only 44 and in a different stage of my life than yourself the above things you mentioned are a must for my life. I have several health issues and I have found that if I do not maintain these things along with a few others my daily life will become turmoil and difficult to walk through. I also take supplements and make it a point to walk 3 days a week and do yoga three days a week. If I miss one day everything is thrown out of balance and I am a mess! And I must say meditation has truly saved my life.

    I too am a vegetarian. I also gave up caffeine, dairy and sugar a few years ago all for my health. And I have been astounded at the results. Every once in a while we may be away from home and I have to stray from my normal diet and boy do I pay for it later. Sugar in particular will throw my body into complete chaos. I’ve found the theory that sugar and dairy cause inflammation to the body and induce pain to be absolutely the truth.

    My routine for going to bed each night is very rigid and important as well. Isn’t it amazing how well and quickly the human body will respond to these things? I wish more people would give these sort of things a try in their lifestyle. I know they would be amazed at the difference. Life is too short and I feel that I must do all that i can to keep the “balance” in my life. I want to be able to enjoy every single second!

    Have a blessed day Claudia!

    Belinda

  15. I take control and care of my body by making sure to eat a healthy diet, exercise every day, drink plenty of water, and I do yoga which really helps me stay balanced!

  18. As usual, an informed and enjoyable post! I have reached that “Beatles song age” as well and do find that it takes thought to maintain a balance and live a healthier life!

  19. With a new diagnosis of sarcoidosis, I am learning a whole new facet of self-care. There is a whole new learning curve living with an incurable, but treatable illness. Balancing life, work, faith, food and fun is a constant test of my endurance!
    Here’s to enjoying this new season of my life, regardless of what it entails. I think I will take up yoga!
    Susan

  20. Over 50 Vitamins for Women & an extra tablet of D….lots and lots of water. But sugar & carbs are my downfall. Blood work recently shows that to be a fact. :-(
    Balance is truly an answer for so many things in life!!

  21. I take control and care of your body by exercising every morning, eating lots of veggies and fruits and by getting plenty of sleep.

  23. I am taking a Vitamin D and Vitamin B complex for deficiencies. I read labels and try to eat less processes foods. Sleep and getting exercise needs improving. Hygiene has always been important
    I have celiac so I don’t eat gluten. I also avoid soy products.

  24. I exercise regularly and make water my ‘beverage of choice.’ I have lots of other things to work on, but I am trying to mindful and work towards goals gradually.

  26. Always a good reminder to strive for life balance, Claudia. To work toward that in my life, I make every attempt to exercise daily, get out in nature, eat a healthy, balanced diet, and get to bed at a decent hour. I was not familiar with the new Monistat Complete Care line of products. Thanks for the introduction.

  30. I eat healthy and exercise daily to take care of my body.
    tcarolinep at gmail dot com

  32. I exercise and take vitamins. I’ve been trying to drink more water and avoid sodas but it’s easier said than done for me!

  35. I try to exercise while watching TV shows or movies, rather than sitting there.

  37. I take control and care of my body by walking daily, eating lots of fruits and veggies and taking vitamins.

  39. I take control and care of my body by drinking a lot of water, eating healthy food and no soda!

  42. I try to get a little fresh air and sunshine every day. Whether it’s sitting in the swing with my baby or walking to the playground with my three year old. I try to get outside and move my body at the same time.

  43. I make sure I take showers and lotion up after! Love trying new face washes as well.

  46. I take control and care of my body by walking daily, eating lots of fruits and veggies, having yearly checkups and taking vitamins.

  48. I take care and control of my body by eating natural foods and having a positive outlook every day.

  49. I EAT RIGHT AND GET MY NIGHTLY SLEEP IN ORDER TO STAY IN CONTROL AND REMAIN CONFIDENT =)

  52. We try to reserve wknds for family time, and work only on week days. Not bringing work home, helps us stay balanced

  55. I spend time on the weekend prepping meals and snacks so that a healthy option is always ready to grab.

  57. I try to take care of my body by eating right and drinking lots of water and getting in my exercise!

  59. I take control by maintaining a regular exercise routine.

    Thanks for the chance to win!
    wildorchid985 AT gmail DOT com

  61. I eat right and work out and have regular doctor visits to maintain my health.

  63. I try to drink lots of water and eat fruit and veggies often. Thanks so much.

  68. I exercise every day and eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I also try to get enough sleep.

  70. I try to take time out during the day to go for a walk – helps with stress and gets me some exercise!

  77. I love to keep active by working out. It gives me energy and makes me feel better.

  79. I started a low carb diet in January and since then I’ve shrunk 5 pants sizes!

  80. I take care and control by getting some exercise and taking my vitamins! :)

  82. I try to get enough sleep at night and I am also watching my blood pressure. Mediation and a good night’s sleep is both good for that. It gives me more patience during the day.

  91. I have gotten lots of things down to a routine, which allows me to spend my mental energy on things that matter more to me. When things gets stressful, I don’t have to worry about taking care of those things when I have a lot on my plate.

  93. I take control by watching what I eat, ensuring I have some time for myself and exercising.

  99. I take control and take care of my body by making sure I take my vitamins, drink lots of water and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
    sazzyfrazz at gmail dot com

  100. I keep up with dr appts and getting myself checked out!

    demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com

  103. I take care of myself by eating right, exercising (either walking or jogging), drinking lots of water, and reading a book before bedtime.

  110. I take control and care of my body by eating well, exercising and getting plenty of rest.

  111. I try to concentrate on fruits, vegetables and protein not always successfully but I try.

  113. I took control of my body by stop drinking soda and replacing it with water.

  119. I take control and care of my body by drinking a lot of water and going to the gym at least three times a week!

  121. Self-Care—–it is a full time job, isn’t it?! I TRY to eat right and this time of year it is much easier. I walk 2 miles every morning followed by some yoga stretches for my tight hips. I drink lots of water and follow a low-carb diet which is fairly easy as I am allergic to wheat. Monistat has helped me out many times in the past when things got off-balance.

  122. I try to take control by drinking a lot of water, no soda, exercising at least 5 days a week, showering daily and sleeping in the “buff” so that everything gets proper ventilation.

  124. I take vitamins and make a smoothie every morning with three kinds of fruit. I try to use my treadmill three times a week.

  125. This is such an interesting and necessary post for women of all ages. I have never used Monistat, but if would be a good thing to keep on hand. Recently I have begun to take more responsibility of my well being. I put out 2 quarts of good water each day to make certain I get my quota. Have made strides to eat more and more raw fresh fruits and veggies every day. Almond milk has replaced dairy; homemade lemonade with natural sweetener has replaced fruit juices. I have never eaten alot of meat, but have made the decision to eat less and less. I find that the more I eat a goodly amount of fresh raw food, especially greens , the less I crave sugar…..which has always been a challenge. During the summer I find it easier to detox by eating these things and sweating a lot while working in the yard and bike riding.

  126. I take care of my body by exercising, drinking lots of water, taking daily vitamins and eating right!

  127. This is a book I really must read. I am turning 60 in a couple of months, and for the first time ever, my age is “bothering” me. I guess my own mortality is becoming a fact, not a far off idea. I have begun to be more aware of my body, my moods, my inner workings. I am making it a point to drink more water, avoid fried or overly sugary foods, to get out and walk and to listen to my body. I no longer try to stay up later when my brain tells me I am tired and need sleep. I dont eat when my stomach says I dont need another thing. Finally learning to tune in to what matters! I want to make the rest of my life, the best of my life!

  128. I swim frequently and stay away from prescription drugs. I like natural remedies for just about everything but I would LOVE a $100 VISA card. Susan

  129. I take good care of myself by practicing good hygiene, eating a healthy diet and getting exercise.

  131. I recently joined a fitness club and attend regularly and I also use their pool. I have always loved the water so I’m really enjoying it. We are eating more healthy foods and feeling so much better as we age. I would love a chance for a gift card as well!

  136. I take care of myself by being thankful every single morning for the blessings I live with. I walk to see the world and move my body and breath the wonderful fresh air. I take my vitamins and eat good, fresh healthy food and drink plenty of fresh clear water. I laugh as often as possible and try to always find the humor in all circumstances. I am so blessed.

  138. I take care of myself by drinking water (neither alcohol nor soda), eating fresh vegetables everyday and avoiding sun.

  148. ive been taking better care of myself by eating healthier and leaving out the sweets ,,ect

  151. I try to eat right, exercise, drink plenty of water, taken cranberry supplements and other vitamins such as iron which target more of a woman’s needs.

  152. I take control by getting lots of exercise, eat fresh vegetables and drink lots of water!

  154. I drink lots of water, take vitamins, walk when I can and try to eat healthy. Thanks for the giveaway!

  155. I take control and take care of myself by drinking only water. I cut out sodas at the beginning of the year, and I feel great!

  158. I try to take good care of my body but my arthritis makes exercising difficult. I try to make up for it with a better diet and plenty of rest.

  160. I exercise and eat healthy to take control and care for my body. I love to feel energetic and healthy!

  166. I try to do everything that is not the best for me but is still fun in moderation LOL! I won’t say no (unless it is toxic or non-vegetarian LOL) but I will say not now. :-D Keep things fun but safe.

  168. I take care by not smoking, not drinking alcohol and watching my sugar level. I try not to eat out often.

  172. I drink plenty of water and limit my intake of sugar and fried food

    tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

  174. I take control and care of my body by only eating foods which are healthy for me.

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