6 Free Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
When we talk about our mental health, we’re talking about much more than a clinical diagnosis, like depression or anxiety. Your mental health also refers to your psychological well-being and that you’re able to better manage your emotions as well as your mood. Every day presents its unique challenges, and a healthy mental state can help you take challenges in stride and stay balanced.
1. Positive Affirmations
Repeating an affirmation can help you create a positive mental outlook that could greatly improve your life. Use a search engine to look up “positive affirmations” and you’ll find several ideas of words and phrases that resonate with you, and things you struggle with. You can also try searching for something more specific, such as “positive affirmations for women” or “positive affirmations to improve self esteem”.
Repeat your phrase or phrases during meditation, out loud or in your mind, dance your mantra, sing your mantra, have fun with it. Repeating affirmations or mantras during your consistent meditation practice or while living life, can help you overcome negative self-talk, which will greatly improve your mental health.
2. Gratitude
Practicing gratitude will sharpen your attention towards the positive aspects and noticing what’s working in your life. By focusing on what’s good, you’ll start to notice and appreciate other positive things in your life. Even writing about what you’re proud of yourself for can lift your mood. Gratitude is more than just a feeling; it is a choice. By choosing to be grateful, you can keep your mind distracted from negative thoughts. Remember, we see what we look for.
3. Eat Healthy
Eating healthy is a vital part of positive mental health. Eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains (if you can eat them) will slowly release energy into your bloodstream, creating a consistent level of energy that won’t leave you feeling tired or sluggish. Eating healthy will also provide a mental boost because you’ll feel good about your healthy food choices.
4. Reach out to Friends
Whether its friends, a community, or random people at the grocery store we all need to be around people. In order to lift your mood you may want to call a friend and see how they’re doing or make conversation with the barista at your favorite coffee shop. Reaching out to others helps us get out of our own way and focus on others which in turn may make their day. Try it and see how you feel.
5. Sunshine
Sunshine is a great way to boost your mood. Put on some comfortable walking shoes and take a leisurely walk around your neighborhood, or a local park. Exposure to sunlight will help your brain release serotonin which will boost your mood, and help you feel more calm and focused. Early morning sun light may even help you sleep better at night.
6. Get Some Sleep
A good night’s sleep is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. When you’re well rested, you’re naturally energized. Regular sleep also boosts your immune system as well as your cognitive and mental health. Make sure not to have caffeine, chocolate or watch stimulating TV shows or use bluescreens at night as they may make it harder to fall asleep.
You have the power to improve your mood. By making some healthy additions to your daily routines, you can develop regular habits that will improve your overall mental well-being.
Are you having trouble staying positive or managing your moods? I can help you find better coping strategies, and offer additional support and guidance to help you live a more balanced life. Email me today, and let’s schedule a time to talk. [email protected]