As humans, we tend to place more importance on our physical health than our mental health. While taking care of your physical health is crucial, investing in your mental health is equally important. Even if you don’t suffer from a mental illness, staying on top of your mental health is an essential component of maintaining your well-being. Here are five ways you can invest in your mental health starting today!
1. Try meditation
With a growing body of evidence supporting its mental health benefits, meditation is gradually becoming more mainstream. Meditation is a mental exercise that helps you decrease rumination and become more present in the moment. When done consistently, meditation has been shown to actually rewire your brain for increased empathy, an enhanced sense of self, and an increased ability to cope with stress. Using a guided meditation app, such as Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer, is a great place to start.
2. Pick up a hobby that excites you
Having a hobby that genuinely excites you can go a long way in supporting your mental health and well-being. Your hobby could be anything from physical activities like kickboxing or yoga to more sedentary activities like knitting or making jewelry. The options are endless so don’t be afraid to try out different things until you find something that truly brings you joy.
3. Take your sleep seriously
Research shows that sleep and mental health are intimately related. A lack of sleep can cause or worsen your mental health and, conversely, mental health issues can cause or worsen sleep issues. To best support your mental health, make sleep a priority. Put away electronic devices a couple of hours before bed and make it a point to go to sleep at a reasonable hour (between 10 and 11 p.m.). Invest in a good pillow and things like blackout curtains or a white noise machine, if needed. Don’t underestimate the power of deep, restorative sleep!
4. Eat well and exercise
Eating a nutritious diet and regularly exercising will not only support your physical health, but can also do wonders for your mental health. Focus on eating real, whole foods (with an emphasis on plant-based foods) and aim to move your body for at least 30 minutes a day. Exercise in nature and/or the sunshine for an added mental health boost!
5. Go to therapy Many people think that therapy is only for those with serious mental health issues or whose lives are falling apart. While therapy can certainly help in those cases, the reality is that the benefits of therapy extend far beyond periods of crisis. Therapy is about helping you feel confident in navigating your life and supporting you in becoming the best version of yourself. A good therapist can help you uncover things you may not even know are holding you back, guide you in making choices that make the most sense for you, and support you in processing difficult emotions (which we all have!).
If you’re ready to invest in your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to SoundMind Wellness today. We meet you where you are, supporting you in whatever chapter of life you’re in. Feel free to call us at (954)-613-9414 or fill out our online pre-screen questionnaire to get started.
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this page are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of mental healthcare, wellness and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for a relationship with a licensed mental health practitioner. Always seek the advice of your therapist, physician or other licensed mental health professional with any questions you may have regarding a mental health condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional mental health advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.
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