Life getting you down? There’s no time for that. There’s only time to pick yourself back up and get back in the game.
Too often life becomes overwhelming and the first thing to go is self-care, which is a crucial element in our ability to function every day. Self-care is especially important when it comes to our mental health.
Start the year off right- without compromising a healthy mindset to get you through the BS.
Here are a five great ways to improve your mental health.
That’s right. Find your inner Zen. Train your mind with this tried and true method to rest your brain, deeply. Guided meditations are great for beginners, easy to find on Apps or YouTube, and you can cater the length of time to fit your schedule. No more excuses. Dive right in! Once you get into a steady routine you’ll be sure to want to expand your practice, experimenting with technique and time.
Move your body. Exercise isn’t just good for the body. It’s good for the mind. It’s good for finding the energy to get out of bed in the morning and facing the day. Whether it’s throwing yourself a dance party for one or buying yourself a gym membership for Christmas, getting your blood flowing has too substantial an outcome to be overlooked when it comes to your mental health.
Do something kind. Kindness has to limits. It can be big or small, each act of kindness increasing your self-esteem and giving your mood a boost. Donate food to the homeless, volunteer at an animal shelter, or just hold the door open for somebody with full hands. Give a compliment to someone who might need it, make sure the person with the flat tire is okay. The way helping others can change the way we feel about ourselves is one of the beautiful intricacies of our nature.
Go outside. The studies have spoken. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a trip to the beach or, in desperate situations, covering your apartment with lots of plants, spending time in nature is a wonderful way to nurture your mental health. Sit and stare at the birds, listen to the sound of the wind rustling the leaves on the tree. Watch the waves crash on the shoreline and feel the calm wash over you.
Write in a journal. You don’t have to be a writer to write… to let your thoughts flow freely onto the page, allowing your brain to process information in new and exciting ways. Journaling can be done first thing in the morning or last thing before sleep. You can carry your journal and your stainless steel ballpoint pen with you and sporadically write your thoughts throughout the day. The ritual is similar to a purge, and sure to leave you feeling lighter.
