In this
fast-paced world, we are always on, always going, always doing — and always
feeling the pressure to do more. But as we grapple with a growing mental
health crisis, it’s time to prioritize self-care and self-compassion.
Here
are 9 simple ways to show yourself some love today.
1. Take a break.
For
many of us, this is easier said than done. Whether it’s work/life balance,
family drama, school stress or other demands consuming your time and energy,
you probably feel too overwhelmed to think about taking a break. But the mental health benefits of hitting pause far
outweigh anything you think you might miss out or fall behind on by taking a
short break.
Trust
me, you’ll feel refreshed and even more productive if you take a few minutes to
yourself before diving back in.
2. Relax.
Taking
a break is a good start but to truly show your mental health some love, embrace
stress management through the art of relaxation.
Relaxing takes a pointed effort to take your mind off the ever-increasing
demands and distractions around you.
Try
deep breathing, mindfulness or guided imagery, to name a few —
whatever helps you disengage your mind from the world around you.
3. Try a de-stressing exercise.
It
might be the last thing you want to do when you’re feeling overly stressed, but
experts agree that exercise is one of the most powerful ways to give your
mental health a boost. Certain forms of exercise are especially helpful for
releasing built-up tension and anxiety.
Try yoga or tai chi to fully embrace the mind-body
connection.
4. Get outside.
Maybe
yoga isn’t your thing, but exercise still should be. Grab your sneakers and
head outside for a breath of fresh air in the great outdoors. In some ways, exercising
outside is even more beneficial than hitting the gym.
Better
yet, find a group fitness class that meets outside for some social interaction.
5. Feed your brain.
When it
comes to your mental health and your mood, nutrition matters. Did you know
stress raises the levels of the hormone cortisol in your body? This
inflammation causes a myriad of problems related to elevated blood sugar,
indigestion and weight gain that can leave you feeling miserable.
Tonight,
cook yourself a meal full of anti-inflammatory and stress-fighting
foods like salmon, avocado, broccoli and mushrooms. Add some turmeric for flavor and an extra
anti-inflammatory boost.
6. Embrace your inner child.
Coloring
books aren’t just for children. Art has been proven to lower stress levels and
boost mood, but the reality is we’re not all artists. Coloring books are a simple way to take a
mental break, let go of distractions and get in tune with your feelings.
Head to
the store to pick up some crayons and a coloring book, or find a printable book
online, and get coloring.
7. Put pen to paper.
You
might not consider yourself a writer, but don’t we all have a story to tell?
Research shows that writing can help you identify and manage
stressors in your life, find emotional healing, lower your stress levels and
boost your problem-solving skills.
It
doesn’t have to be a novel, but take 15 minutes today to sit down and write
about whatever comes to mind.
8. Go to bed.
If
you’re like most of America, you could use a good night’s sleep. 1 in 3 adults
does not get enough sleep on a regular basis (“enough” meaning the 7 hours
recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.) When you’re
sleep-deprived in terms of quality or quantity, your physical and mental health suffer.
So, go
to bed early, sleep in, do whatever you need to do to get a good night’s sleep.
Your body and brain will thank you.
9. Disconnect.
Let’s
talk about social media. While social media can help you connect with friends
and loved ones, the social comparisons and pressure to keep up can also leave
you feeling drained, anxious and even depressed.
Just
for a few minutes, turn everything off. Embrace the freedom of disengaging. You might find you
enjoy being in the moment more than being in the know.
Whatever
self-love looks like for you, make it a priority — not just for today, but for
the rest of your life. If you ever feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety or
depression, know that you’re not alone. You can talk to a doctor and get help today.
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