Disclaimer: While I wholeheartedly believe in the power of a self-care routine for mental health, this is not a solution for those suffering with suicidal tendencies. If you wish to end your life but are looking for answers before doing so, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (available 24/7) at 800-273-8255
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There are plenty of self care tips for mental health out there. The trick is to find a few that work for you and make you feel good.
“Adulting” is hard work, right!? Going to work, social events and appointments, it’s no wonder mental and emotional health are becoming more openly discussed. Being a health and successful adult with serious goals can be a true test of mental well-being and strength. Self-care is something that I’ve practiced implementing into my weekly routine for a while now. Needless to say, this is crucial for sustainable efforts toward success.
10 Self-care Tips for Mental Health
Here are 10 self care tips for mental health to practice during highly demanding weeks that will help keep you refreshed and on track toward your goals
One
Get plenty of sleep. This one may sound obvious, however, do what you can to get to bed on time by planning your evening around going to bed at a decent time.
Turn the TV off an hour earlier, adjust your schedule, start saying “no” to plans or cut something out of your evening that can help you catch a few more ‘zzzs’.
Do what you can to prioritize your sleep – your body and mind will thank you!
Two
Plan a positive start to your day. Lately I’ve been journaling or practicing meditation when I can in the morning.
It’s so simple but it really sets the tone for my morning and helps me to remember to take care of myself throughout the day.
Taking just 10 minutes to do something you enjoy can set the tone for a mentally rejuvenated day!
Three
Limit screen time. If you work on a computer like I do, cutting screen time after work hours can work wonders for mental rest.
Try to be mindful of when you want to go to bed and plan to cut screen time an hour or so before you turn in.
Run a warm bath or read your favorite new book instead of scrolling through social media posts or binge watching a show on Netflix – you deserve it!
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Four
Get outside! This one is huge for me. Feeling the sunshine on my skin and breathing in fresh air is so healing and rejuvenating.
It also is a good way to reset if you’re spending time on a task such as studying or if you took work home from the office.
Especially if you work from home, you should try to get out of the house for a quick walk whenever possible.
Five
Get plenty of exercise. If going to the gym seems nearly impossible, try to squeeze in a home workout or a quick run outside.
If it’s too cold, stay in and do some yoga – anything to stretch your body and get your blood circulating.
Six
Treat yo’self. This doesn’t necessarily mean going crazy on some retail therapy (unless it’s comfortable for you to do so), instead, light some candles, open a bottle of wine, and read a good book.
You could also meet a friend for a cup of coffee. Spending an hour on yourself here and there will work wonders.
A glass of wine and jigsaw puzzle is my pastime of choice if I don’t feel like reading or going anywhere.
Seven
Stay hydrated. If starting your day with a cup of tea doesn’t sound appealing to you, lemon water is an amazing way to wake your body up.
I love how refreshed my body feels if I drink a cool glass of lemon water before eating breakfast.
I usually drink several glasses/bottles of water per day so staying hydrated if part of my routine and I’ve got to say, it makes ALL the difference,
It’s a great way to keep energy levels up in the afternoon as well!
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Eight
Cook a nutritious meal and eat it while listening to some music. Something that I’m starting to cherish are the times where my fiance and I sit at our dining room table and eat dinner instead of eating in front of the TV.
Living overstimulated does not help rest your mind. Relax with some music and simply enjoy your meal and some conversation.
Nine
Try starting a journal. If you read that and thought “great something else to do” maybe this one isn’t for you.
However, I’ve found that keeping track of things that I do and how I’m feeling has helped keep me centered. It’s also a great way to live in the moment and be conscious of what you’re experiencing presently.
I don’t literally write what I’ve done that day and how it “made me feel”. Instead I write down things that I want to accomplish, if I’ve accomplished them and how my overall mindset and outlook has been.
I’ve found that I’m more positive and grateful than I thought I was, and it’s helped to create a better picture of myself which, in turn, helps to continue to change my outlook and attitude for the better.
It’s a constant work in progress but is also very rewarding. Plus it’s fun to look back at how far you’ve come and how your mindset shifts.
Ten
Get organized. If you have a little bit of free time, go through your closet and donate some clothes to Goodwill.
This will not only benefit others but will help create a more organized living environment which could help decrease your stress levels.
Plus, it’s something to do at home that doesn’t involve a screen!
I hope you found a couple tips that you think would work for you! Personally, reading, journaling and exercise are my go-to options for self-care. I’ve found that working out (especially when I don’t want to) really helps maintain my mental and emotional health!
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