Top 5 Wellness Tips for APP Clinicians
By: Lisa Mathis, MSN, FNP-BC
1. Schedule Time for Yourself Like an Appointment . You make time for your patients every day. Give yourself the same priority. Block out 10 to 15 minutes on your calendar each day for something that restores you, whether it's a walk, reading, stretching, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee.
2. Take a Pause and Breathe. When the day feels overwhelming, stop for just one minute and focus on your breathing. A few deep breaths can lower stress levels, improve focus, and help you reset before moving on to your next task.
3. Move Your Body, Even in Small Ways. You don't need an hour at the gym to benefit from movement. Take the stairs, stretch between patients, walk during a phone call, or spend a few minutes outside. Small bursts of activity can boost energy, improve mood, and reduce stress.
4. Practice Mindfulness, Not Perfection. Healthcare professionals often hold themselves to incredibly high standards. Give yourself permission to be present rather than perfect. Mindfulness can be as simple as focusing on the task at hand, enjoying a quiet moment, or recognizing something positive that happened during your day.
5. Utilize Available Wellness Resources. Support is most effective when it becomes part of your routine. Explore wellness resources available through your organization, such as NPACE's free wellness videos, guided relaxation exercises, or other self-care tools. Small, consistent efforts can have a meaningful impact on long-term well-being.
Closing Thought: Remember, self-care is not selfish. Taking care of your own physical and mental well-being allows you to continue providing the best care for others. This National Wellness Month, commit to one small wellness habit and see how those few minutes each day can make a lasting difference.