It’s no secret that mental health awareness continues to remain at the forefront of many conversations. Nowadays, conversations about anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses are commonplace. This is good because it decreases the stigma that surrounds mental health. Now, when a person prioritizes their mental health through various tactics, it’s considered very normal. If you’re unsure of how to prioritize or improve your own mental health, consider the following tips.
1. Exercise
Exercise is essential for physical health. However, it’s also extremely beneficial for those who deal with mental health challenges. It’s even great for improving a mental health regimen. After a long, stressful day at work, a cardio workout can be effective in washing away the challenges of the day. Choose an exercise you’re more likely to stick with.
If you love the elliptical machine, create a great playlist and hop on for 30 minutes. If strength-training workouts allow you to release endorphins, learn the proper form and spend some time in the weight room. Try your best to make exercise a daily part of your life as it has benefits that go far beyond looks.
2. Inspirational Messaging
There’s so much power in the words you speak aloud and think in your mind. Start by repeating positive words to yourself. If you find yourself ruminating or meditating on negative experiences, stop yourself. Work on breaking the habit of complaining on a consistent basis. Your words can quickly become your world.
Whether you’re consuming teachings from Lord Abdruschin or reading a self-help book, find ways to infuse your mind with positivity. As you think about positive things, you’ll elevate your ability to hope for the best and believe in better things to come.
3. Water Consumption
Water is such a vital part of your body’s ability to function. When you’re dehydrated, it’s not uncommon to feel sluggish and lethargic. When you don’t have energy, you’re more prone to making bad decisions. While the Western culture continues to normalize excessive coffee consumption, add two cups of water to the mix. If you’re drinking one cup of coffee for the day, intentionally drink two cups of water as well. Work on consuming half of your body weight in water. When you drink lots of water, you’ll feel the difference for sure.
4. Fresh Air
There’s nothing quite like getting outside to inhale the fresh air to help improve your mental health. In fact, grounding is an excellent ritual to consider. Within an hour of waking up in the morning, get outside to get some fresh air. If the weather permits it, take off your shoes and allow your feet to connect with the grass. As you center yourself, take deep breaths. Learn a few breathing exercises in order to allow yourself to release stress, center your mind, and prepare for the day.
5. Nutrient-Rich Food
The brain-gut connection shows that what you eat directly impacts the way you feel. Instead of constantly driving to fast food restaurants to quickly order a meal, begin to prepare your own meals at home. Use whole ingredients. Pay attention to the amount of salt, sugar, and oil you use. In addition to your morning coffee, consider eating a smoothie bowl or a small bowl of chia seed pudding. Consume high-quality supplements that can support mental clarity, energy, and more.
6. Physical Touch
Whether you’re hugging a loved one or sharing a few kisses with your child or partner, become intentional about finding ways to physically connect with another person. When you’re single, it can be a little harder. However, you can always give yourself a hug. Take time to hug yourself as this helps you connect with your body. Research suggests that when you’re able to physically connect with someone who feels like “home”, you’re more likely to release stress and heal from burnout.
Closing Thoughts
When you’re dealing with mental health challenges, pay attention to how long it takes you to rebound. If you feel like your mental health is getting in the way of your ability to carry out tasks or even get out of bed, it’s time to get professional help. Don’t forget about the power of therapy and medication to heal. You don’t have to walk alone as you figure out your own mental health journey.
With these tips and professional help, you can improve your mental health and develop a powerful regimen to protect your mental well-being.
