An often-overlooked area of our overall wellness is our mental health. We typically hear about how we should eat healthy or lose weight but our mental health maintenance is not something that is typically talked about or encouraged. However, the fact remains it can feel very difficult to take care of ourselves when we are not feeling mentally healthy.
Here are some tips to help you focus on your mental wellness:
Get enough sleep. As boring and predictable as it sounds, there is no way around it! We need to get enough sleep for our body to rest and heal itself. Stick to a schedule during the week and weekends, eliminate light in your bedroom or wear an eye mask if this isn’t possible, and avoid things such as alcohol, exercise, screens, caffeine, heavy meals, etc. at least 1 hour before bedtime.
Have some fun! As adults, work is usually prioritized over play. However, research shows that participating in hobbies, laughing, and experiencing joy are all tied to more positive mental health. Of course, what each person will find fun will differ greatly! Reading, watching movies, creating art, puzzles, experiencing nature, sports, spending time with loved ones, listening to music, playing games, etc. are all different ways to “fill your cup”.
Stay social. Even if you consider yourself shy or introverted, we all need positive social interactions in our life to stay fulfilled. Ensure you maintain social relationships, whether it’s through family or friends, coworkers, clubs or events through a community centre, church or library.
Keep positive! Seems simple but there is research showing that having a positive attitude can help improve our mental health. This is something you may need to practice at first. Start by recognizing when you are speaking negatively to yourself. If you wouldn’t say it to someone else, then don’t say it to yourself! Another way to practice is to use positive self-affirmation. An example is “I am deserving of happiness, love and respect.” You can either write these words on a piece of paper and keep in your home where you will see it or simply repeat to yourself when you are having a hard time.
Move your body! It can sometimes feel difficult to get active when you’re not feeling your best mentally, however exercise does have the power to boost our mood. Focus on joyful movement such as walking or hiking in nature, stretching or practising yoga, or dancing to your favourite music. Exercise and physical activity should not feel like a punishment!
Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health! Making time to prioritize and focus on this aspect of your overall well-being can have an impact on many areas of your life. What can you start doing today to help build your mental health and resilience?
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