As we are looking forward to the new year in a few days, I know that a lot of us already have our resolutions set for the next year. But how many of us have ' good mental health' on that list? In fact, it should be at the top of all of our lists. Although it is a very important and serious thing, a few simple changes in your lifestyle is all that you need! (P.s: There is a tiny exercise at the end of the post for a little start)
According to WHO (world health organization), mental health is defined as the state of well- being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities; can cope with the normal stresses of life; can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.
1.Manage Your Stress
Almost always, it is never as bad as you think it is. Stop yourself from unnecessary worrying, stressing yourself about the unknown future or the unalterable past.
This is a small exercise you can try, which I came across on the internet and found useful: make a list of all the things worrying you, and then scratch everything that is out of your hands, now work on those which you can control.
2.Eat Healthy
This one is definitely hard for me as well, but also a complete game changer. Fruits and vegetables help the brain in the process of producing serotonin, which is a mood regulating hormone.
Having a good intake of fruits and vegetables also ensures a healthy, functioning digestive system. Good gut health is the key to overall health.
3.Plenty Of Sleep
A sufficiently rested mind is a highly productive mind. Lack of sleep causes a huge array of problems starting from irritability and lethargy to cardiac arrest and depression.
When you wake up with a fresh mind, you feel ready to take on the day. An easy way to start getting enough sleep is to start getting into bed a little earlier; try half an hour, for starters.
4.Drink Plenty Of Water
I have personally struggled a lot with this and to a certain extent still am. But hydrating your body is so very important. Our body needs water to function at it's best. Dehydration can cause our body and mind to shut down pretty quickly. So remember to get your fill of eight glasses today.
5.Move Your Body
Moving your body does not mean for you to work out or go to the gym; it can just be dancing to your favorite song or taking a stroll in your favorite park.
This helps in calming your mind, in moving away from your worries for at least a few minutes.
6.Learn A New Skill
Doing something different and challenging yourself to explore new things refreshes your mind. It pulls you away from the regular monotony of life.
Learn a new language, or try painting for the first time, or write a poem; it can be anything that you have been wanting to try but haven't.
7.Healthy Relationships
You are the sum of your five closest people. Be careful about whom you give your time and energy to. Surround yourself with people who add value to your life and to those whom you can add value to.
Cut off toxic people from your life, no matter how much you love them. A few questions you can ask yourself to assess your relationships: Do I feel drained when I spend time with them? Do they celebrate my victories with me? Am I my most authentic self when I am with them?
8.Spend time in nature
This is such an underrated yet such an easy thing to do. Studies have found that spending time in nature helps reduce stress, blood pressure and improve your mood.
Go outside for five minutes, without your phone, and just take in a deep breath of fresh air and look at the trees, the grass, the sky, all of the natural beauty surrounding you.
9.Give To Others
This definitely does not just include gifts and money (of course you can do that too). It can be giving your time and being there for someone going through something. It can be a few kind words to someone whom you know has had a bad day. This brings in such a huge sense of joy and fulfillment.
A small exercise for you if you are feeling overwhelmed right now:
Place your hand on your heart, take a deep breath in, and say this with me,
' I am exactly where I need to be right now, everything is happening for me, not to me.'
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