Everyday life can be demanding.
When things seem like they are getting on top of you, here’s a brief reminder of helpful wellbeing behaviours. Try these prompts to preserve your balance, or re-balance yourself.
1. Value yourself:
Try to be kind and avoid self-criticism. Whether you want to broaden your horizons or make time for your hobbies, it’s up to you. Take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument, or do a daily crossword puzzle – do things you enjoy.
2. Surround yourself with good people:
Most of us have networks of different people. It might include family members, friends, co-workers, classmates, neighbours and other important people. If you want to be healthy, surround yourself with good people. You can find activities where you can meet new people at a club, class or support group.
3. Take care of your body:
Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. It’s important to eat healthy and drink plenty of water to improve moods and sleep. It is possible to reduce anxiety and improve mood by engaging in regular physical activity. Research has also linked exercising to living a longer life. You don’t need to run a marathon or play 90 minutes of football; a short walk or some another gentle activity might do the trick.
Find an activity that includes movement, such as dance or exercise apps. Get outside in an area that makes it easy to maintain a distance from people, such as a nature trail or your own backyard.
4. It’s time to quiet your mind:
Relaxation and / or spiritual practices can improve your outlook on life. Research shows that meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy you might be working on.
5. Practice how to deal with stress:
Stress is a part of life: it’s unavoidable. Practice good coping skills: Tai Chi, exercising, taking a nature walk, playing with your pet, and journal writing are some of the good ways to deal with stress. Laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, and relax your body. Don’t forget to smile and enjoy life.
6. Try a change of pace:
Although our routines bolster our feelings of security and safety and make us more efficient, breaking up the monotony can revitalise a tedious schedule. Use a new jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk in a different neighbourhood, hang some new pictures or try a new cafe.
7. Set realistic goals:
Write the steps you need to accomplish your goals when you decide what you want to achieve. Be realistic and aim high but don’t over-promise. As you progress toward your goal, you’ll enjoy a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
8. Get plenty of sunlight
Humans are basically houseplants with emotions–and they need sun. It’s important to get out in the daytime to get good vitamins and lift our mood, especially in the southern hemisphere winter now. Sunlight is a significant source of vitamin D. Our bodies and our brains need vitamin D for neurochemicals which improve our mood. 30 minutes to two hours a day of sunlight is ideal, but make sure you keep your skin and eyes safe. Some people become depressed during the winter because they aren’t getting enough sun. Using a special light-therapy lamp to ease symptoms is helpful for some.
9. Watch your alcohol intake (and other drugs):
Sometimes people use alcohol and other drugs to “self-medicate” but in reality, alcohol and other drugs might only aggravate existing problems. Use with care.
10. Get help when you need it:
It is not a weakness to seek help – it’s actually a sign of strength. Treatment is effective, and it is possible to recover from mental illness and addiction with care.
Please feel free to share these tips with your colleagues, friends and family.
And let me know what’s working for you right now.
