5 Steps to Improve Your Mental Health

Mental health has been at the forefront of many of our minds lately. We knew the COVID-19 pandemic would affect us. And yet, no one really knew just how much of a burden a pandemic would place on the average human being. Turns out, we are all overwhelmed. And we are all trying to figure it out as we go.

Sure, we can all get through tough days, but what about when those mole hills grow into mountains? When the burden becomes heavier and our responsibilities grow faster than our capacities can adequately accommodate, where do we turn?

Here are 5 tried and true ways to maintain your mental health before you hit your breaking point.

1. Meditation: This may be the one that many might want to immediately write off. But I promise you, mediation is the pinnacle of mental health. It is recommended to start slow, maybe five minutes at a time. You'll want to work towards 15-20 or even 25 minute intervals.

Eventually, you'll begin to have a deeper understanding of yourself, your thoughts, your tendencies as well as gain a clear vision of your pain points and how to effectively manage them.

Everyone can use more meditation in their lives, so why not give it a try. What have you got to lose?

Great apps to try: Calm, Synctuition and Headspace.

2. Exercise: Ever heard of Runner's High? It's a thing for a reason. Anytime you exert energy, your body experiences very real feelings of euphoria as well as reduced anxiety and pain. It would be a mistake to underestimate the power of a quick run around the block or even some bodyweight exercises in your garage. Do this three times a week and you'll notice your health meter start to move in the right direction.

3. Read a Book: Reading has the ability to transport us to another dimension, if only we submit ourselves to the words on the pages of the next great American novel of course. But to the get the most benefits of this, don't read an article, or something else on your phone or tablet. Grab a book you've been meaning to dive into, silence your phone and allow yourself to get lost in a story. Give yourself thirty minutes of undivided attention to your story, you won't regret the tiny escape from reality.

4. Take a Trip: Sometimes, all you need is a break from your regular vantage point. Have you been meaning to take a day trip to the mountains or a local tourist spot? Or maybe you've been meaning to drive up the coast and see the sights? Do yourself a favor, make good use of a vacation day, or a sick day, make it a three-day weekend and do it! There is nothing like a change in scenery to put your life into perspective. Plus, you'll gain a new-found appreciation for your own bed after a weekend of low-cost Motels or AirBnBs.

5. Rejuvenate: Massages? Yes please. 2pm Mani/Pedi? I'm there! Whether it's a facial or vaginal bedazzling, go out and pay for a treatment for your body. Anything that makes you feel like a million bucks is worth it. This is great because anything counts. Maybe you need a relaxing day at a Russian Bath Spa, or maybe you've been meaning to get a badly needed haircut, just do it! You'll gain a jolt of confidence and people will notice a spark about you!

Bottom line, there are limitless ways to ensure you maintain good mental health, the most important takeaway here is to make these habits part of a routine. Don't just perform these once and forget about them. Maintain a routine of self-care. This will ensure you've always got it together and are in the best frame of mind to take on everything life throws at you!