1. A nurturing supportive social network is needed. Loneliness
increases the risk of illness and is common for a person who is mourning.
It is important to stay in touch with friends and relatives at this time.
Participation in a self-help group may also be beneficial.
2. Adequate Nutrition is Necessary. A weight gain or loss of more than
25 pounds may make one more likely to have physiological or emotional
problems. Daily portions of food from each of the basic food groups are
essential.
3. Adequate Fluid Intake is Essential. Fluids are necessary to
eliminate body wastes and to maintain the proper electrolyte balance.
Feelings of tightness in the throat or diminished appetite could be from
lack of fluids. Beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea or colas, and
alcoholic beverages cause further dehydration and should be limited. There
is nothing quite as healthy for you as a glass of water.
4. Daily Exercise is Important. Muscles must be kept in good tone in
order to properly serve our bodies. Walking vigorously for about 20 minutes
a day, various stretching exercises and general activity are going to
benefit you. Chemicals in the brain, which cause feelings of alertness and
happiness, are stimulated by exercise.
5. Daily Rest. To avoid radically altering your sleep cycle and
sleeping more in the day, it is important to continue with your same rest
patterns. If your are unable to sleep throughout the night, an hour's rest
at mid-day may be necessary. If you are experiencing great difficulty with
sleep, you might try eating a small amount of food high in carbohydrates
about 90 minutes before bedtime. A good breakfast high in proteins is a
good way to start off the day and gives you a good boost. If this change
does not aid your ability to sleep, you should consult your physician. The
use of any medications should be supervised.
