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JUNE 2024

Self-care tips for dads

Fatherhood brings joy, pride—and sometimes, pressure. Many dads feel they have to do everything well, including excelling at work, being a role model to their kids, providing a safe home, ensuring financial security for their family and staying strong, both physically and mentally. 

When there’s so much focus on the family, it’s easy for dads to leave out caring for themselves. But self-care benefits everyone. Taking care of your own needs first allows you to be more present, loving, and supportive of others. 

If you want to be the best dad, grandpa, uncle, stepdad or big brother you can be, self-care is essential. And that goes beyond basic healthy habits, like eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. Get started with the tips below.  Your Costco benefits can also support your efforts with therapy, coaching, digital tools and more.

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6 ways dads can practice self-care

Listen to music.

Music can raise your spirits, as it triggers the release of dopamine, the feel-good hormone. Songs from your youth can do even more. According to Psychology Today, feelings of nostalgia can offer relief from present stress and prevent loneliness. It’s also a good way to connect with your kids — they may roll their eyes at “dad’s music”, but it can become something special between the two of you. Play some Springsteen, Green Day, 90s hip hop or listen to “Thriller” again if it makes you smile.

Have a good laugh.

Laughter cools down your stress response and aids in muscle relaxation. It truly is the “best medicine.” Check out dad jokes on YouTube, rewatch your favorite over-the-top comedy, scroll through SNL sketches. For device-free laughs, talk to a funny friend or try laughter yoga (yes, this really is a thing).

Stay connected.

When you know there are people who support you no matter what you’re going through, it can improve your outlook on your life. Hanging with friends, being part of a dad’s group, or joining a peer-to-peer online support group through Supportiv can relieve stress and give you a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Go outside.

Spending time in the sunshine offers a free hit of serotonin to help improve your mood and boost feelings of happiness and well-being. Take a walk, jump on your bike, or settle down on a comfortable park bench for some mindless people watching. Aim for at least 120 minutes per week.

Pamper yourself.

Give yourself permission to take care of your appearance. Get a haircut if you’d like. Think about getting a pedicure, especially if you’re on your feet all day. Experiment with beard oil. These things can boost your mood and your confidence.

Stretch.

Not only does stretching improve your mobility and flexibility, but it can also increase your body’s level of serotonin, the hormone that reduces stress and stabilizes your mood. Add 5 – 10 minutes of stretching throughout your day for a quick pick-me-up.

Self-care isn’t selfish. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be an even better dad than you already are. Your Costco benefits are here to help.

Sources:
Healthy Dad Hacks. Self-care for dads: what it is, why needed, 14 ideas. 
Psychology Today. The psychological effects of nostalgic music.
Mayo Clinic. Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke.