Your mental state has a tremendous effect on your body, even if you sometimes don’t realize it. We tend to think of our physical and mental well-being as two separate entities, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Physical health problems have an adverse effect on our mental health, and vice versa.
A bad mental state can result in difficulty holding concentration, feelings of lethargy, and even impotence.
However, there are many things you can do that aren’t overly stressful for your mental health, which in turn will help your physical self too. Here are four ways to give yourself a mental wellness boost and see changes in your physical and emotional health as well.
1) Create a Routine
When times are tough, it may be difficult to stick to or even find a routine. This is why it’s important that you create one as soon as possible. You don’t need to have a grand plan. Instead, the routine can be something as simple as making your bed in the morning and then getting breakfast. Small steps are all it takes to get started on recovery.
Before you even know it, you’ll find you have your whole day planned out, from waking up to going to bed. Between the basic tasks you’ve set yourself, you can begin to add more activities. Indulging in hobbies, joining a gym, or even seeing friends are great ways to pick yourself up.
It might sound stressful to have such a detailed routine, but know that it can be flexible. It’s just meant to serve as a little support, guidance, and motivation – your schedule can change if an exciting opportunity comes in your day!
2) Starting Something New
Occasionally, you’ll find that all the things you used to enjoy don’t quite bring you that same level of satisfaction. You’re simply going through the motions. This is your brain trying to tell you that it’s missing a challenge, that you need to find ways to stimulate yourself.
Invest your time in a new hobby. Painting can be great for relaxation, with countless ways to tackle the subject. Also, writing boosts creativity. Whether it’s fiction or fact, both offer ways to engage your brain. Board games such as chess keep your brain engaged and can even boost your problem-solving skills.
These are just a few examples, but you want to choose something that will keep you engaged.
3) Switching Off
As much as you might like it to be, your body is not a machine, and it needs downtime as much as you might with everything going on. Whether that means taking naps, reading a book, or playing video games, your brain will benefit from switching off.
Understandably, taking a break doesn’t sound that good in practice. But having a small rest is vital to refreshing your headspace and preparing yourself to tackle what comes next.
4) Doing Something for Others
It can get difficult to think about yourself all the time, so why not think about what you can do for others?
Have a friend who needs something doing? A relative who needs help? Reach out and see if you can provide any kind of aid. Doing something for others is a great way to feel good about yourself and a great step towards positive thinking.
Bottom Line
Improving your mental health isn’t a straight path, and it won’t always be consistent. But one thing to remember is that there are always people you can turn to for help.
Whether it’s family, friends, or health care professionals, this isn’t a road you need to walk on your own. Don’t be afraid to reach out and start that dialogue with loved ones — they may even have some suggestions on ways to boost your mental health.