You, Your Life, Your Dreams: A Book for Adolescents (FCI, 2000, 213 p.): CHAPTER 5: BASIC BODY CARE: Good rest

DETACH

NO HIGHLIGHTING

You, Your Life, Your Dreams: A Book for Adolescents (FCI, 2000, 213 p.)

CHAPTER 5: BASIC BODY CARE

		(introduction...)
		Keeping clean, smelling nice
		Caring for your teeth
		Pimples
		Hair care
		Eating well
		Exercise
		Good rest

Good rest

Along with good food and plenty of exercise, you need to rest enough. Resting allows the body to store up more energy. Rest can be in the form of physical relaxation or sleeping.

Take time to relax each day by reading a book, doing something you enjoy, listening to the radio, or simply reflecting on your life. In small quantities, television can be relaxing, but don't spend too much time watching the television or videos.

Sleep is an especially important form of rest. Only when you are asleep does your heart slow down and your muscles relax. This allows your body to recover and repair itself from any stresses or injuries. You need a lot of sleep during adolescence because your body uses up a lot of energy. Most people need about 8 hours of sleep every night. Some people need less, and some people need more. If you are tired all the time, make sure that you are going to bed early enough. All the changes your body is going through are very demanding, so make sure you give it a chance to rest!

Chapter 5
Basic Body Care

There are a few simple and basic things you need to know about taking good care of your body.

· As you reach puberty, you will start to perspire more. Bathing will keep you clean and smelling nice.
· Clean your teeth at least twice a day to avoid tooth decay (cavities) and to have nice breath.
· If your oil glands produce too much sebum (an oily substance), you may develop pimples. Pimples are a normal part of adolescence, and there is no way to avoid them altogether. Keeping your skin clean with water and a mild bathing soap is the best solution. But do not wash your skin too much, and do not use strong laundry soaps because this will damage your skin.
· Eat a nutritious diet full of "go foods," "glow foods" and "grow foods." Avoid eating too many sweets and fried foods.
· Get plenty of exercise. Exercise strengthens your heart, lungs and muscles, keeps you fit and lifts your spirits.
· All the changes you are going through are very demanding, so give your body a chance to rest - around 8 hours per night.

By practising good hygiene, eating well, exercising properly and resting, you will allow your body to function at its best. You will feel good physically, which will also help you feel good emotionally.