By Sarah Paton, ND
Dr. Sarah Paton, NDIf you’re someone who shows up again and again—for our democracy, our planet, and other humans—this is a gentle reminder that your care matters too. Oregon’s winter has a way of asking a lot of our nervous systems, especially when the work is constant and the stakes feel high.
Tonight, try closing your curtains early, placing your phone in another room, and turning off your Wi-Fi (it’s been shown to disrupt sleep for some).
In the evening, skip caffeine and chocolate, and make space for an herbal tea you enjoy. Ginger, chamomile, or mint are lovely options—avoid mint if you have reflux, and licorice if it keeps you awake. Let your tea steep, covered, for a full 10 minutes to draw out its strongest medicinal benefits.
Give yourself at least 30 minutes before bed without screens. This isn’t the moment for big self-help books or anything that stirs you toward action. Choose something light and comforting—something that lets your mind rest.
If it’s available to you, an Epsom salt bath before bed can reduce pain, ease tension, and help you fall asleep faster. Deep rest is not a luxury—it’s part of how you stay steady and resourced enough to keep showing up for what you care about.
Dr. Sarah Paton, a licensed naturopathic physician, specializes in natural, integrative medicine at drsarahpaton.com.
Disclaimer: Self Care posts are shared for information purposes only, and are never intended as individual medical advice nor as a substitute for healthcare services.