Top 10 Wellness Tips for Writers
Are you a writer that likes to stay on task until you get all the words on paper or finish a chapter no matter how many hours it takes? While writing often requires long hours of sitting and intense mental focus, if you want to thrive creatively, you need to practice self-care. Try incorporating some of these tips to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being as a writer.
Take breaks. After working for long periods of time, you may start to feel mentally sluggish, and the ideas stop flowing. Try taking a break every 30 minutes. Stop writing and give your hands and eyes a break from the computer screen for a few minutes. You can walk around or stay where you are. Set a timer to remind you.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make you feel tired, your cognitive abilities start to decline, and your muscles will start to get sore. Keep a bottle of water handy at your desk so you can sip all day long. Try some nourishing elixirs or infusions to give you some added flavor. Water doesn’t have to be boring. Your body will thank you.
Movement. If you can, get up and walk around. Outside if possible. Fresh air can do wonders for your mental health. Or do simple exercises at your desk like rolling your shoulders, shaking out your hands, and stretching your fingers and forearms. You can stand up and touch your toes or do some side bends and a few squats.
Meditate. Writing is mentally demanding which can lead to stress and anxiety. It is helpful to stop writing, close your eyes, breathe deeply, and let your mind wander for a few minutes. Try listening to some music that relaxes you.
Join a writers group. Writing can be a solitary endeavour and you can feel isolated. Connecting with other writers can provide support and valuable feedback. Check out local writing groups, workshops, or online communities. Your tribe is out there!
Sleep. We’ve all heard that we need at least 8 hours sleep each night or restorative sleep. If you are feeling tired and groggy, you should check out your sleep hygiene routine. Getting into the same habits each night will signal your body when it is time to stop working and rest. A 15-minute power nap in your day can revive you enough to meet your writing deadline.
Manage your goals. Break your writing goals down from huge chunks into smaller, more doable ones. Give yourself realistic goals and then celebrate as you achieve them. Give yourself some grace when you don’t.
Healthy snacks. I know some writers get into their zone and forget to eat. Keep a few healthy snacks such as fruit and nuts within reach so you don’t end up in a mental fog due to lack of nutrition. Nothing high in sugar though; you don’t want a sugar rush followed by a sugar crash.
Posture. To prevent discomfort and pain, be sure you are sitting with good posture. Invest in an ergonomic chair and/or keyboard or a standing desk.
10. Be self-aware. Listen to your body. Eat when your body tells you it’s hungry. Sleep when you get sleepy. Being in tune with your body will help you prioritize self care.
