January 8, 2026

8526 Views

Care for Yourself First: Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses

Posted on January 8, 2026January 8, 2026 by Lidia Staron

Nursing is considered one of the most stressful professions. In fact, 92% of nurses report moderate to very high-stress levels. Travel nurses face additional challenges – being away from home, working at an unpredictable schedule, and saying goodbye – all of these can add to the stress and lead to job burnout.

Whether you are a new travel nurse or have been in this profession for a long time, here are some self-care tips for travel nurses to deal with chronic stress and job burnout.

Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses:

Physical Self-Care

Health is wealth, so they say. Physical self-care involves activities that help you stay fit and healthy.

Exercise regularly. 🏃‍➡️

Staying physically active is one of the best self-care practices that you can do. As a nurse, you might find it challenging to squeeze in time for a workout. But even things like walking a few miles during your break, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or a few stretches during your idle time can help a lot.

Eat your greens. 🫛

When you’re traveling, it can be tempting to indulge in mouthwatering food and taste the best dish the place has to offer. Even so, make sure that you are eating your greens. A balanced diet will give you the energy you need to survive a tough day at work.

Go to bed early. 🛌

Getting enough sleep is an impossible dream for most nurses. But if you want to stay sane on your next shift, you need to. Some strategies to induce sleep include keeping your bedroom quiet and comfortable, taking a warm shower before bedtime, and listening to relaxing music.

Emotional Self-Care 🧘‍♀️

Practicing self-care is more than taking care of your body. You should take care of your mind too. Here are some scientifically proven ways to take care of your mental health.

Unplug. 📱

As a travel nurse, you have the opportunity to explore different places. With so many interesting sites to see and things to do, it’s a perfect time to unplug from your devices and get outside! Check out nearby parks and shops, go to a museum, grab a snack at a popular local restaurant, or take a selfie at popular destinations. Even a quick trip to the park can greatly ease your stress and make you feel better.

Change your mindset. 💆‍♀️

Sometimes, the best way to deal with stress is to change your perspective. If you keep seeing the glass half empty, negativity will continue to run your life. It is important to first acknowledge that stress is part of your job. Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, reframe your thoughts and focus. It’s a deliberate practice that takes time to master. But once you achieve it, being optimistic will change your mind.

Be organized. 📂

When you are constantly traveling for work, being organized is your best weapon to success. Having great organizational skills will make your life so much easier, from making a packing checklist to dealing with your finances. Yes, even when it comes to your finances. Always keep track of your cash flow. When you are traveling for work, there’s always a temptation to spend more. Settle your bills on time, including cash advance. Create a budget and stick to it.

Keep in touch. 📱

Feeling homesick is normal. So you won’t feel lonely, find time to connect with your family and friends. Whether it’s a quick video call before you go to sleep or a random text message – find ways to reach out to your friends and family back home.

Develop supportive friendships. 👯

Indeed, you will just be saying goodbye to them soon, but making friends especially at work should help counter the loneliness you feel. One of the greatest joys of travel nursing is meeting new people. Don’t close your doors to new friendships. You can build strong relationships no matter what the distance.

Practice mindfulness. 🧘‍♀️

As a nurse, you might be constantly juggling with a hectic routine. No matter how busy your life gets, aim to squeeze in time for quietness and relaxation. Engage in reflective practices like meditation. Do yoga. Go on bush walks. Engage in activities you enjoy. Reflect with a close friend or support. Pray. Practicing mindfulness can be your strongest weapon against stress and burnout.

Self-care is not something that you do just because you want to. Do it because you need to. By taking small steps, you can make these self-care practices part of your life.

If you would like more self-care tips read these articles!

Do you have self-care tips for travel nurses you would like to share? Share them in the comments below!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By The Gypsy Nurse

January 6, 2026

444 Views

5 Ways to Recharge After a Busy Holiday Season

Posted on January 6, 2026December 1, 2025 by The Gypsy Nurse

The holidays can hit healthcare travelers like a snowstorm you didn’t ask for. Between extra shifts, covering for everyone who did take PTO, and juggling your own holiday chaos, it’s totally normal to roll into January feeling completely wiped out. A reset isn’t a luxury; it is a must! It’s survival. These five tips will help you shake off the holiday burnout and start the new year feeling like a functioning human again.

5 Ways to Shake Off the Holiday Burnout

1. Prioritize Rest and Quality Sleep 🛌

Your body has been running on caffeine and vibes since mid-December; it’s time to fix that! Good sleep resets everything: energy, mood, patience, all of it.

Try a cozy bedtime routine. Warm shower, soft lighting, anything that tells your brain, “we are shutting down for the night.”
Consistency is key; try to stick to set sleep times when you can. Even small consistency helps your internal clock chill out.
You have heard it over and over: Put the phone down before bed. Blue light is not your friend.

A few nights of solid rest can make you feel so much better.

2. Focus on Nutrition and Hydration 🍜

Holiday eating is basically a sport, and your body has opinions about it. January is a great time to get back to food that actually fuels you. Simple, no extreme or fad diets. Just foods that are good for your mind and body.

Load up on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins that energize you through long shifts.
Water! Drink more water than you think you need. Dehydration will sneak up fast on busy days.
Meal prep something easy if you can. Even having a few grab-and-go options stops the “I’ll just grab some crackers at 2 a.m situation.

This is less about rules and more about giving your body a fighting chance.

3. Get Up and Move 🏃‍♀️‍➡️

No need for a fitness overhaul. Just get up and move a little. Movement helps shake off stress and tension from long shifts. According to The Mayo Clinic, ” Being active for short periods of time, such as 10 to 15 minutes at a time, throughout the day can add up and have health benefits.”

Small daily routines work wonders. Stretching, a quick yoga flow, a walk around the block… it all counts.
Use downtime intentionally. Weekend walks, fitness classes, or trying a new local spot can help clear your mind.
Even taking the stairs or sneaking short walking breaks during your shift helps your body reset.

Your mental clarity and sleep will thank you.

4. Set Boundaries and Say No 🚫

January is the month when you are tempted to say yes to everything. Don’t. Protect your time and energy like it’s your last holiday cookie.

Limit extra shifts if you’re running on fumes. A rested you is a better nurse or tech and a better human.
Dial back your social commitments. You don’t have to jump back into full-speed social life right after the holidays.
Claim some personal downtime and guard it. Reading, binge-watching, hobbies, sitting in silence. It all counts.

Self-preservation is not selfish.

5. Plan Small Joys and Meaningful Activities 💖

Rest isn’t just sleep. You need joy, too. Tiny, intentional moments can completely shift how you feel.

Connect with friends, family, co-workers, or even fellow travelers; quick chats or coffee outings can boost your mood.
Make time for hobbies that remind you that you’re a person outside of work.
Explore your current city a bit, even in the winter. New places, new scenery, new mental refresh.

Joy doesn’t have to be big or expensive. Small moments add up fast.

As a healthcare traveler, you pour so much into your work, especially through the holidays. Take the start of the year to reset your mind and body. With better sleep, nourishing food, movement, boundaries, and bits of joy, you’ll feel more grounded and ready for whatever your next assignment throws your way.

Ready for a fresh start this year? Explore new travel opportunities on TGN’s Job Board and find an assignment that fuels your energy and passion.

By Fusion Medical Staffing

October 10, 2025

1337 Views

The Ultimate Travel Nurse Self-Care Checklist

Posted on October 10, 2025September 30, 2025 by Fusion Medical Staffing

It’s no secret that life on the road as a travel nurse can be incredibly rewarding — and exhausting. Between jumping into new assignments, working long shifts, and navigating life away from your usual routines, it’s easy to let your own needs slide to the bottom of the list. But here’s the thing: travel nurse self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Taking care of yourself helps you stay balanced, energized, and ready to show up fully for every assignment. That’s why we created this travel nurse self-care checklist with simple, doable ways to put yourself back on your own priority list.

The Ultimate Travel Nurse Self-Care Checklist

Why self-care is important for nurses

As a nurse, you pour so much of yourself into caring for others, but self-care is just as important. The long hours, physical demands, and emotional weight of the job can take a toll if your own needs are repeatedly pushed aside.

By prioritizing self-care, you protect your health, prevent burnout, and keep hold of the energy and compassion that drew you to nursing in the first place. The TL;DR is that when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to take care of your patients.

Top factors that can affect mental health

Travel nursing opens the door to amazing opportunities to grow, explore, and make an impact, but it also comes with challenges that can weigh on your mental health. Adjusting to new facilities, teams, and communities is exciting and can be stressful at times. Constant relocation means tackling housing logistics and finding your rhythm in new places, all while being away from loved ones. It’s not unusual to feel lonely or a little overwhelmed, and when you add in the emotional weight of caring for patients, stress and anxiety can creep in.

The good news? Recognizing these challenges is the first step in handling them. With the right support systems and self-care strategies, you can stay grounded, resilient, and ready to thrive no matter where your journey takes you.

Self-care checklist for nurses

Nursing is all about giving — your time, energy, compassion. But to keep showing up fully for your patients, you’ve got to make space for yourself, too. Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay grounded, energized, and supported.

Physical health

Taking care of your body is the foundation for everything else. When you’re rested, nourished, and moving regularly, you’ll feel stronger and prepared for whatever your shift throws at you.

Stay hydrated
Pack snacks and meals that fuel you
Prioritize quality sleep
Stretch or move to shake off tension
Schedule regular health check-ups

Emotional health

Your job is emotionally heavy at times, so it’s important to process feelings and celebrate the wins (big or small) that remind you why you chose travel nursing.

Practice deep breathing exercises
Journal or jot down thoughts to clear your mind
Lean on coworkers, friends, and family for support
Pause to recognize your impact
Practice gratitude

Mental well-being

A healthy mindset keeps you resilient through challenges and change. Protecting your mental well-being means giving yourself permission to step away, recharge, and enjoy life outside of work.

Set clear work-life boundaries
Listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or music on your commute to de-stress
Try mindfulness, meditation, or prayer — whatever grounds you
Make time for hobbies that light you up
Seek counseling or mental health resources when needed

Social and connection self-care

Connection is fuel, too. Relationships give you belonging, laughter, and the reminder that you’re not alone in the hard stuff.

Stay connected with loved ones
Plan time off or mini breaks to recharge
Connect with other nurses
Give yourself permission for guilt-free fun and relaxation

At the end of the day, self-care practices are all about giving yourself the same compassion you show to your patients every day. Whether it’s staying hydrated, taking time to connect with loved ones, or simply allowing yourself a moment to breathe, small steps can make a big difference in how you feel. By practicing self-care, you’re not only protecting your own well-being — you’re also making sure you can continue to bring your best, most compassionate self to the people who need you most.

By Allison Staley

August 10, 2025

7462 Views

Innovative Ways for Healthcare Workers To Nurture Themselves

Posted on August 10, 2025August 10, 2025 by Allison Staley

Healthcare workers work tirelessly to care for others in the community. Do your roles as healthcare workers involve intense emotional experiences? That is why it’s good to keep your emotional health in check. Also, track your emotions/feelings and their impact on your efficiency and performance. In most cases, you’ll feel fatigued, and some time off, your job will always come in handy. But there are several other ways to nurture yourself and boost your working morale.

7 simple ways healthcare workers can nurture themselves:

Prioritize you needs

It’s easy to get immersed in caring for others and forget about yourself altogether. But, it’s advisable to think about your needs and care for yourself as well. Prioritizing your needs may seem selfish, but it’s necessary. Besides, you have to stay in perfect health to care for those who depend on you.

Have limits!

Caring for others is rewarding yet frustrating. It can significantly impact your physical and emotional health, making it imperative to set boundaries. Remember, you can’t handle everything. Know your limits and respect that. For instance, if you feel fatigued, pushing on with your task will leave you more tired and less effective. Why not take some days off?

Taking time off work will replenish your energy and allow you to spend time with family and loved ones.

Eat sensibly

Food supplies your body with the right nutrients necessary for the key bodily processes and tissue repair. It also strengthens your immune system, which helps in fighting infections. Do not forget that, as healthcare workers, you’re highly predisposed to pathogens. To achieve all these, eat a balanced diet comprising proteins, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, and fats. Lastly, drink enough water and avoid junk and sugary foods; it’s the best way to keep your immune level high.

Spend time with loved ones

Making memories with family members is an excellent way to unwind. Some of the things to try out are; having dinner together, planning weekly family days, and attending family meetings. Moreover, do daily chores like cleaning, gardening, and cooking together.

Lastly, have candid discussions with your family members. For example, listen to their stories, take photos, and create an autobiography template to act as memories of your youthful days later in life.

Stay active

Exercises are associated with numerous health gains. It improves your mental functions, alleviates stress, helps in weight management and strengthens your heart, not to forget body immune. Exercise daily and engage in other activities that encourage you to stay active. Even if you lack time to go to the gym, simple activities like rope skipping and walking go a long way.

Get some rest

Sleep is an integral aspect of your health and wellbeing. When you sleep well, you wake you feeling relaxed and refreshed. Sleep helps combat stress and anxiety; when you have a good night’s sleep, you feel better about yourself, which intensifies your efficiency at work. Set a sleep routine, and avoid distractions as you sleep. If you have issues getting adequate sleep, try something relaxing like reading a book or listening to soft music.

Seek support

Most healthcare workers are reluctant to seek help. For some, asking for help makes them look weak, vulnerable, and incompetent. But this is far from the truth. We all need support, and this doesn’t have to come from people. It can be in the form of activities, resources, and experiences. Getting support from others is also vital, and it’s advisable to talk to a professional about your fears and concerns. Moreover, join a support group of other healthcare workers.

The bottom line

Note, caring for yourself as a healthcare worker regenerates your health and wellbeing. It enables you to focus more on your work, and this boosts efficiency. If you feel overwhelmed by your role as a care provider, never hesitate to seek help. A support system will replenish your energy levels, enabling you to offer better services.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Miles Oliver

May 2, 2024

2520 Views

Nurturing Your Well-Being: Essential Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses

Posted on May 2, 2024April 22, 2024 by Miles Oliver

While working as a travel nurse is a gratifying and noble profession, it also presents its share of challenges. The constant movement and changing landscapes can be hard on your body and mind. Taking care of your physical and mental health is key, and these essential self-care tips can help you thrive in your exciting career.

Essential Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses:

Hydration Is Key

Hydration is essential when you’re constantly traveling. You’ll likely find yourself in many different environments and weather conditions, ranging from a dry climate to a humid one, so you need to be ready.

By staying hydrated, you can keep your joints lubricated, deliver nutrients to your cells, and keep your organs functioning properly. On top of all that, you’ll prevent dehydration, which could lead to fatigue, headaches, and more.

When you’re busy, it can be challenging to remember to drink water, but there are tips you can consider as a healthcare traveler. One of them is to start each day with a glass of water so you can wake up the body. Keep a water bottle with you, and you’ll be more inclined to drink. You can also eat hydrating snacks like watermelon and strawberries.

Dry weather and a lack of hydration can also lead to skin issues. Cold and dry air can cause your skin to get irritated, and without treatment, it can get scaly or flaky. In addition to drinking water, you should have a skincare routine. Many people use the Korean skincare routine because it can help your skin and provide a healthy glow. This routine involves using oil-based cleaners that can remove sweat and dirt. It also involves water-based cleansers that can help with essential hydration. Eye creams, moisturizers, and sunscreen can also produce healthier skin.

Maintaining Your Physical Health

Physical fitness is also vital during your efforts as a travel nurse. Even if you’re crunched for time, you can still find ways to fit fitness into your day. One way is to walk whenever you can. If you’re not walking on the job, research places nearby, like a local park, and walk there during your breaks. You can also pack light weights in your travel bag to take out between patients for a quick workout.

Exercise can also include yoga or meditation to work your body and mind. Work stress-reducing routines like these into your day by packing a yoga mat and taking it out when you have time.

The other part of the equation regarding physical health is good nutrition because it will keep you in good shape, make you more resilient, and improve your mood. It can be tempting to stop for fast food when you’re on the go, but overindulging in trans-fats can leave you feeling slow and sluggish. Instead, eat healthy salads and snacks throughout your day, like almonds, fruits and vegetables, and yogurt. You can also plan out your meals so you know what to eat in advance and avoid the need for a quick solution with fast food.

Take Time To Rest Your Body And Mind

As a travel nurse, you must practice good mental health so you can feel good and help the patients to the best of your ability. When you’re constantly on the move, it can be easy to start to feel lonely and isolated, so turn to your personal relationships. Call family and friends when you’re down, and form healthy relationships with your fellow nurses so you can lean on each other.

You could also practice mindfulness during your assignments, which means paying attention to how you feel and focusing on your present self. One way to do this is by journaling your thoughts so you don’t keep your worries cooped up in your head. You can also stay optimistic by adopting a growth mindset. When you get a new assignment, think about how beneficial it can be and the valuable experiences you’ll learn.

Finally, ensure that you’re getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night and take naps when you’re tired. If you don’t give your body a chance to recharge, you’ll lack physical and mental energy the next day. To improve your sleep, try to go to bed at the same time every night. Try to sleep when it’s dark because lights can disrupt your circadian rhythm by entering your eye and tricking your body into thinking it’s daytime. Light can also disrupt your sleep cycles, so you wake up feeling unrested, setting the tone for the rest of your day. Set a good bedtime routine, and you’ll be better off because of it.

Conclusion

Self-care is of utmost importance in travel nursing. The best way to help others is to take care of yourself, so heed these tips, and your efforts will show in your work. We hope you found theses essential self-care tips for travel nurses helpful. Do you have any essential self-care tips to share with your fellow travelers? Comment your essential self-care tips below.

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By Rory Donnelly

March 23, 2022

4671 Views

Are Nurses at Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 9 Tips to Avoid it.

Posted on March 23, 2022January 16, 2023 by Rory Donnelly

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or CTS is a condition that typically starts as a numbness or tingling sensation in the arms and hands that could be painful due to everyday strenuous activities. It occurs when the median nerve running from your forearm to the hand gets compressed or pinched. This nerve runs through a narrow space called the carpal tunnel that gives the condition its name. Many forms of manual labor, musical instruments, or vibrating hand tools could lead to CTS. It could be mild or severe depending on the level of pinching occurring in the median nerve.

Why do nurses get carpal tunnel?

Since CTS begins due to excessive strain on the median nerve while performing everyday tasks and activities, there has been a rise in the cases of CTS in nurses. The reason is that your occupation demands continuous repetitive movements of the fingers and wrist without any break, awkward hand movements for long hours when assisting in surgery, and constant vibration or mechanical stress on the palm because of various medical devices.

These activities are most likely to put severe pressure on your median nerve resulting in pain, swelling, weakness, numbness, and various other symptoms in your fingers and hands. Most of the occupations, including nurses, face higher risks of CTS because their job requires excessive tugging, pulling, pushing, or twisting movements in arms and wrists. So while you may be going through your routine work of pushing syringe plunger, pressing blood pressure bulbs, continuously tapping into keyboards, etc., your median nerve might be overexerting itself.

Now you know what might have caused your CTS. It is time we take a hopeful look at what you can do to ease your symptoms. Most mild symptoms of CTS tend to fade away with some lifestyle changes and medication.

Here are nine home remedies for carpal tunnel relief:

Take multiple breaks while performing repetitive tasks:

Using timers to give your aching arms and fingers a break after every 15-20 minutes would help your hands relax. Gentle shaking of the hands also helps relieve the median nerve pressure.

Wear splints on your wrists:

Wearing wrist splints, especially when sleeping, will allow your hand to remain in proper alignment without the risk of overextension or extreme flexing. Being a nurse, you might not have breaks at work, so you can ever prefer wearing the splints during your workday to help relieve some pressure from your median nerve.

Wear compression gloves:

We all know what the cold weather can do to an already aching body part. Seek relief with warming mittens like compression gloves which help relieve the numbness and pain. Compression gloves are available with copper ions embedded in them that improve blood flow and supply adequate oxygen to your hands and wrists.

Warm water treatment:

For some people, warming treatments help alleviate the pain, weakness, and other symptoms. You could try soaking your hands in warm water. Make sure that the temperatures range between 92-100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ice bath:

Your tendons might swell up due to CTS. The best way to relieve them is by soaking your hands in an ice bath or using an ice pack once every few hours. The best time to use an ice bath is after performing your CTS relieving exercises to avoid inflammation by restricting the blood flow.

Reduce your force and relax your grip:

Lightening the strength you use to perform regular tasks can also diminish the discomforting symptoms of CTS. Try softening your grip and taking on your duties lightly.

Elevate your hands and wrists:

Some causes of CTS give rise to fluid retention. Elevation will help ease this thereby, reducing the pressure on the median nerve and helping your hands relax.

Do quick wrist exercises:

Since you don’t require special equipment for most CTS exercises, you can even perform these exercises when at work to improve blood circulation.

Ergonomic changes:

These include minor changes in the way your hands and wrists move when performing daily tasks at work.

Although CTS disrupts daily life to a large extent because it directly affects the hands and wrists, it is easy to manage it with these home remedies.

We hope you found these tips for avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome helpful. Do you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome and have any tips to share? Comment below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Karl Murphy

December 11, 2021

9405 Views

5 Self-Care Ideas for Managing Mental Health and Increasing Wellbeing

Posted on December 11, 2021December 11, 2021 by Karl Murphy

Self-care and mental health are essential for anyone that wants to live a happy life. An extensive definition of self-care means taking an active role in safeguarding one’s well being and happiness. Below you will find 5 great self-care tips for travel nurses to manage their mental health.

It’s about putting yourself and your mental health first in times of stressful occurrences. As simple as it sounds, several people struggle with sufficiently taking care of themselves.

5 Self-Care Tips to Improve Your Mental Health and Wellbeing

General self-care includes getting adequate sleep, eating well, and exercising. But when it involves the stability of your mental health, it goes beyond that. To this end, we’ve put together five useful ways to manage your mind and improve your wellbeing.

Stop Putting Yourself Down

Often, people who suffer verbal and mental abuse for so long find themselves believing the negatives about them. It creates an inner voice that criticizes their every move and decision.

You find that rather than talking yourself up, you put yourself down. This profoundly affects one’s self-esteem and sense of self and will continue that way if left unchecked. It’s time to take back the power!

Just because someone else puts you down with their words and action doesn’t mean you should do the same to yourself. For every no and negativity thrown your way, you should replace them with positive words of affirmation.

Worry Less About What People Think

It’s easy to get carried away with what’s on social media and unconsciously pressure yourself to measure up in today’s world. Do away with fears of missing out, and quit acting like others are the judge and jury of your life.

Focus on you, what you like, and what makes you happy. For people to see you the way you want, you must first see yourself the same way. Develop a strong sense of self-love that doesn’t need validation from anyone.

Do away with people who put you in a place where you have to seek their approval. Surround yourself with those who appreciate and lift you.

Learn New Skills

According to the National Health Service UK, research has shown learning a new skill improves mental health and wellbeing. It boosts self-confidence, helps build a sense of purpose, and connect with others.

There are several ways to achieve this without having to sign up for a skills acquisition workshop. You can:

Learn to cook something new, most preferably healthy meals.
Take on a new responsibility at work like mentoring a junior or intern.
Work on a DIY project around your home. Fixing something yourself is an excellent way to boost self-esteem and confidence.
Use a language learning app to study a new dialect.
Take on a new hobby like blogging, or join the podcast trend, talking about things that matter to you.

Note that the above are just suggestions, and you should do them only if they interest you. The key is knowing you can learn anything you set your mind to and finding what works for you.

Set Realistic Goals

Goal setting is where several people shoot themselves in the foot. They fail to make it realistic, and when they don’t achieve it, they beat themselves up about it. According to the Awareness Center, the gap between expectation and reality is often a factor in mental health issues.

Not achieving your goals may trigger bouts of depression. You feel like a failure, like someone who can’t achieve anything and become anxious. You can fix this by setting realistic goals and not looking for perfection like top foreign brides searching for a wedding dress. High expectations equal too much pressure, which is terrible for your mental health.

Cherish Every Moment

Most people fret so much about the future that they fail to appreciate the moment. Paying attention to the present improves your mental wellbeing and general wellness. Be thankful for each day, and cherish the moments you create.

Be in tune with what your body and the world around you need presently, and leave tomorrow’s problems till they happen. This form of mindfulness will help you enjoy your life and understand yourself better. It will also help you address challenges more positively.

It’s All About You!

Your mental health and wellbeing are all about you and no one else. It’s called self-care because no one else can do it for you. So, start with these tips, and live each day putting yourself first, keeping in mind that there’s no one like you in the world.

We hope you found these self-care tips helpful. Do you have any self-care tips to share with your fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By CareerStaff Unlimited

September 28, 2021

7345 Views

Leaving the Day Behind: Relaxation Techniques for Nurses

Posted on September 28, 2021September 22, 2021 by CareerStaff Unlimited

This article was provided by CareerStaff Unlimited.

By Karen Stockdale, MBA, BSN, RN

For most nurses, dealing with high levels of stress on a daily basis becomes the norm. The nature of the job lends itself to stressful situations – from dealing with life and death situations to interacting with people at some of the worst moments of their lives – over long, demanding hours. The rates of nursing burnout are very high, with similarly high rates of mental health problems like anxiety and depression.

Many nurses find themselves re-living the day’s work – mentally rechecking everything to make sure nothing was missed or secretly chastising themselves for not doing more. This mental game is called “ruminating” and can be very damaging. Ruminating prolongs and intensifies stress, leading to depression and impairing your ability to process events. If you find yourself ruminating on the day, step back and find an activity that requires your mental ability in a non-exhaustive way. Puzzle and word games, crafts, visiting friends, sports, or other hobbies can help “reset” your brain and get it out of the loop.

Nurses are often giving people by nature – they entered the profession to help others. This selfless attitude, while admirable, can cause a challenge when it comes to a positive nurse work-life balance. These are the qualities that make great nurses! However, it is also these qualities that make it hard for travel nurses to unwind after work.

As a nurse, how do you unwind, reset, and protect your private time? Let’s take a look at some techniques to reclaim your mental space and coax the stress away.

Five Ways to Unwind

1. Exercise.

Exercise releases feel-good endorphins and takes the tension away. And it doesn’t have to be physically exhausting. A walk, some yoga, some dancing, playing with a child or your dog – all of these are ways to move your body and release some stress. It also helps you sleep better!

2. Keep a Journal.

Focusing your thoughts on exactly how you are feeling can help you express yourself – and leave it on the page. Many find that gratitude journaling is a good technique for emphasizing the greatest things in life. Instead of focusing on stressful parts of the day, it might be helpful to express gratitude for the coworker that brought you lunch or the family member that hugged you. Journaling can help bring the joy back.

3. Spend time with family and friends.

When you don’t feel at your best, it is tempting to be a hermit and skip social events. Don’t do it! Spending time with those you love is a natural stress reliever and gives you a feeling of belonging and connectedness. When nurses talk about work-life balance, this is one component that is crucial to well-being.

4. Laugh.

Sometimes it is hard to find the humor in a situation – but nurses are known for a wicked sense of humor! A twisted sense of humor is a tried-and-true coping mechanism for healthcare workers. Caution – use your humor around people that “get it,” or it could be mistaken as in poor taste. Then laugh until it hurts!

5. Learn to Say NO.

As givers, nurses are sometimes not good at boundaries. This equates to extra shifts, staying late, and helping out coworkers and friends. This often leads to a lack of personal time and self-care and breeds resentment. While it is difficult, learning to say “no” in kind ways such as “I just have too much on my plate right now” or “Thank you for thinking of me, but I need to step away for a while” become easier with practice. Saying “no” gives you control over your stressors and eliminates that overwhelmed feeling.

CareerStaff Unlimited knows how important self-care is to busy nurses, and we support the work-life balance of each individual. Travel nursing opportunities allow nurses to select the assignment and the hours that are right for him/her while seeing new areas of the country and experiencing new cultures. Explore your options through CareerStaff by searching current travel job openings. Then relax and let us handle it!

We hope you found these tips for travel nurses to unwind. Do you have ways that you unwind after a long shift? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to view our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Christina Lee

September 1, 2021

4654 Views

7 Easy Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses

Posted on September 1, 2021October 4, 2021 by Christina Lee

Nurses spend so much time caring for their patients’ health that it is often easy to neglect their own health. A stressful job combined with long, unpredictable hours and being away from home can weigh heavily on a nurse’s health, so it is important that you look after your own mental and physical health so that you can be in top shape to help your patients.

Check out these seven easy self-care tips to ensure you look after yourself while out on assignment!

Easy self-care tips:

1 – Get Plenty of Sleep

Easier said than done, eh! Travel nurses work irregular hours and alternating shifts so getting the adequate amount of sleep is not always easy. However, to function at its optimum, your body needs sufficient rest, so it’s vital to prioritize sleep in your schedule. To ensure a good rest, avoid eating any big meals before sleep and try to put away all electronic devices at least one hour before bed. If you are finding it tough to get to sleep, you could try some apps like Pzizz or Calm, which have sleep meditations and music that can help you catch those well-needed Z’s.

2 – Maintain a Healthy Nutrition Plan

Long hours and a stressful working environment can mean nurses find it difficult to find the time to cook up healthy meals. This leads to binge eating and indulging in those unhealthy snacks from the hospital vending machines during break time. “An unhealthy and unbalanced nutrition plan can lead to serious problems in the long term as well as affecting your ability to tend to your patients. Some ways of maintaining a healthy diet while on the road include packing healthy nutritious snacks, prepping meals the day before, avoiding added sugars, and drinking plenty of water,” says Melissa Mullin, a psychology writer at Student writing services and Essay Roo.

3 – Try Meditation

Studies have shown that just a few minutes of meditation every day can significantly help in the management of stress and anxiety that we face in our daily lives. In a job that can be stressful and hectic at the best of times, travel nurses around the world have turned to meditation to help cope with the demands of the role. Beginners can start off with 5 – 10 minutes of meditation prior to work and can gradually build it up. Apps such as Headspace and Insight Timer have excellent guided meditations as well as soothing soundscapes to help you relax and ease your tensions.

4 – Don’t Forget to Exercise

Finding the time to exercise as a travel nurse can be tricky, to say the least. Shift work and long hours mean exercise can often be neglected, but its importance can not be understated. Exercise leads to the production of endorphins which helps with reducing stress. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends exercising for at least 20 – 60 minutes 3 – 5 times a week which will help keep a healthy cardiovascular system and boost your mental health. Walking, cycling, running and swimming are all excellent activities which you can do whilst on the road. Making them perfect for our list of easy self-care tips.

5 – Explore Your Surroundings

It’s important to find a nice balance between your work and social life as a travel nurse. While tending to your patients is obviously a major part of your life, you also need to be able to let your hair down and have your own fun. “Living away from home can be a lonely prospect, but it certainly doesn’t have to be that way. Try to connect with other nurses and socialize on your days off. Go out for dinner, have a few drinks or enjoy the surrounding nature with fellow nurses or even better meet some new friends away from the hospital,” says Alice Barber, an HR manager at Write my essay and Resumention.

6 – Work For a Reputable Recruiter

It is important that travel nurses work for a recruiter who prioritizes their employee’s health and wellbeing. Being overworked and not looked after properly can be seriously damaging to a travel nurse’s mental and physical health, so choosing a reputable recruiter going forward is vital. You should have a good relationship with your employer, who should be available anytime to support you in your journey.

7 – Consider Therapy

Having a trained mental health professional can be really important for a travel nurse. Having somebody there who can evaluate your mental health and map out a path for going forward will really help you cope with the pressure of the job. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP’s) offer emotional support to nurses, and you should ensure you have access to this through your recruiter.

We hope you found these 7 easy self-care tips helpful. Have you found any easy self-care tips or routines on your journey as a travel nurse that you would like to share? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Already have your next assignment but need to secure housing? Click here to visit our housing page.

For more easy self-care tips click here to read more articles on self-care.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses:

Physical Self-Care

Exercise regularly. 🏃‍➡️

Eat your greens. 🫛

Go to bed early. 🛌

Emotional Self-Care 🧘‍♀️

Unplug. 📱

Change your mindset. 💆‍♀️

Be organized. 📂

Keep in touch. 📱

Develop supportive friendships. 👯

Practice mindfulness. 🧘‍♀️

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

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5 Ways to Shake Off the Holiday Burnout

1. Prioritize Rest and Quality Sleep 🛌

2. Focus on Nutrition and Hydration 🍜

3. Get Up and Move 🏃‍♀️‍➡️

4. Set Boundaries and Say No 🚫

5. Plan Small Joys and Meaningful Activities 💖

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7 simple ways healthcare workers can nurture themselves:

Prioritize you needs

Have limits!

Eat sensibly

Spend time with loved ones

Stay active

Get some rest

Seek support

The bottom line

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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Essential Self-Care Tips for Travel Nurses:

Hydration Is Key

Maintaining Your Physical Health

Take Time To Rest Your Body And Mind

Conclusion

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

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