Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being. It affects how we think, feel and behave in our day-to-day lives. Taking good care of your mental health can help you lead a more fulfilling life and achieve your goals. However, staying on top of your mental health is not always easy, especially if you struggle with low mood or anxiety. Fortunately, experts say some habits can help improve your mental well-being over time. From getting adequate sleep to taking breaks from work or school, here are eight practices to help boost your mental health.
1. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity can help you improve your physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise releases endorphins that elevate mood, boost energy levels and reduce stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes (but even 15-20 minutes is better than not doing no exercise at all) of moderate physical activity daily to reap the benefits. This will help you stay in shape and improve your overall mental health.
Some great exercises include walking, running, swimming, and yoga. These activities can help you relax and keep your body in shape.
If you need the motivation to exercise, why not find an online fitness class or join a local running group? Having someone to work out with can make it easier to stay on track and make the most of your workouts. If you are more of a loner, Netflix and YouTube have plenty of short moderate workout videos to choose from to help you get started on a regular fitness plan.
2. Eat Healthy Foods
What we eat can significantly affect our mental well-being. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet increases energy levels and reduces stress hormones. For optimal mental health benefits, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals.
Some meals that are especially beneficial for mental health are oatmeal, fish, eggs, and yogurt. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks that can lead to a crash in energy levels. I have found the best way to manage a balanced diet is to create a weekly meal plan. I do this every week before I go grocery shopping for the family. It also ensures that I only buy what I need for the week and don’t impulse buy or overspend!
3. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for mental well-being because it helps the body rest and recharges. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night, try to go to bed, and wake up simultaneously each day, even on weekends. A sleep routine can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm and promote better sleep quality.
If you need help getting to sleep, try taking relaxing baths with essential oils like lavender or chamomile before bed. Avoid using technology and eating large meals late at night, as these activities can disrupt sleep.
4. Spend Time With Friends and Family
Having strong social connections can help improve mental health. Spend quality time with your friends and family to feel supported and connected. Schedule virtual hangouts or phone calls to catch up with your loved ones if you can’t meet in person.
A great way to combine social connection and physical activity is to join an exercise class with friends or family. This can help you stay motivated and make exercising more enjoyable.
5. Take Breaks From Work or School
Regular breaks from work or school can help reduce stress and increase productivity. Take a break after completing a big task — go for a walk, stretch, or make yourself a cup of tea. This will help you relax and come back to your studies feeling refreshed.
It’s also important to take longer breaks throughout the year — go on vacation or take a weekend trip with friends and family to recharge.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness helps us become aware of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. It can help us focus on the present moment and be more accepting of ourselves and our experiences.
Try mindfulness activities like yoga, meditation, or journaling to find the best. These activities can help you become more in tune with your inner self and practice gratitude. If you’ve never tried yoga or meditation before, YouTube has a variety of 10 minute videos to help get you started and motivated.
7. Make Time for Hobbies and Leisure Activities
Having hobbies can help you stay connected to your interests and reduce stress. Find activities that bring you joy and make time for them — read a book, draw something, or listen to music. Leisure activities are as important as work or school because they give us time to relax and enjoy ourselves.
Also, try taking up a new hobby to challenge yourself and learn something new. This can help keep you engaged and motivated throughout the week.
8. Seek Professional Help
If your mental health struggles are severe or persistent, you must seek professional help. Talk to your doctor or a mental health specialist to support you. Therapists and counselors can help you develop new coping skills and manage difficult emotions.
You don’t have to go through life feeling overwhelmed or anxious — seek help if your mental health affects your daily life. Proper measures can help you care for yourself and improve your overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. Taking care of yourself and establishing healthy habits can help improve your overall well-being and help you feel better emotionally. Make sure to practice self-care, seek support, and seek professional help. You can take care of your mental health and lead a healthier, happier life with the proper steps.
