8 simple tips to improve mental health
Mental health is vital for our well-being, but sometimes we neglect it or take it for granted. Here are some simple and effective ways to take care of your mental health and feel happier:
- Move your body. Physical activity can release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that make you feel good. You don’t have to do a strenuous workout, just find something you enjoy and do it regularly. Even a brisk walk can make a difference.
A workout in the early morning energizes me for the day. When that is not possible, I enjoy a relaxing walk in the evening instead.
- Nourish yourself. Eating well and drinking enough water can help you maintain your physical and mental health. Avoid skipping meals or bingeing on junk food, and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can affect your mood and sleep quality.
I admit that I sometimes indulge in fast food, but I always try to balance my diet and eat well-rounded meals.
- Rest well. Getting enough sleep is essential for your brain to function properly and for your mood to stay stable. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, and avoid using your phone or other devices before bed, as they can emit blue light that interferes with your sleep cycle.
I usually go to bed at midnight and wake up at 5 a.m. to exercise. Sometimes I sleep longer, but I always get up by 7:30 and take a walk. This is what works for me, but it may not work for you. That’s OK! You can figure out and follow your own routine.
- Relax yourself. Find some time every day to do something that calms you down and makes you happy. You can try meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or any other relaxation technique that works for you. You can also use apps or programs that guide you through these practices.
After my workout routine, I do some breathing exercises and a bit of yoga. This lowers my heart rate from the workout and relaxes my body. I also take a powernap during the day to stay energized in the afternoon hours when I feel sleepy!
- Plan and prioritize. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by too many tasks or responsibilities. Learn to say “no” when you need to, and focus on what is most important and urgent. At the end of the day, acknowledge what you have done and celebrate your achievements, rather than dwelling on what you haven’t done.
Software developers use various tools to prioritize and manage their tasks. I apply the same techniques and tools to my personal life as well, and they help me get things done efficiently.
- Appreciate yourself. Every day, think of at least three things that you are grateful for in your life. They can be big or small, but they should be specific and meaningful. Write them down or say them out loud, and feel the positive emotions that come with gratitude.
I have a little notebook where I jot down some of the positive events in my life, the things I appreciate and the ways they have improved my situation. When I’m feeling low, I read those pages and they lift my spirits and clear my head.
- Challenge yourself. Don’t let negative or unhelpful thoughts take over your mind. Whenever you catch yourself thinking something like “I can’t do this” or “I’m not good enough”, try to replace it with a more realistic and positive thought, such as “I can try my best” or “I have many strengths”.
It is natural to feel afraid of failing when we venture into unfamiliar territory. I have experienced this challenge myself. The strategy that helped me cope with it was putting my new knowledge into practice immediately. This reinforces what I have just learned and allows me to learn from my mistakes if I fail. I can then approach any other problem that may come up with more confidence.
- Connect yourself. Reach out to people who care about you and who can support you emotionally and practically. Talk to them about how you feel, and listen to how they feel. You are not alone in this journey, and you can help each other along the way.
Talking to my friends has often been a great source of relief for me. It can help reduce a lot of stress. I don’t even have to discuss any specific issue that I might have, just catching up and finding out what they are doing makes me feel better.
Taking care of your mental health is not a one-time thing, but a continuous process that requires your attention and dedication. By following these tips, you can improve your mental health and enjoy life more!
How do you take care of your mental well-being? Share your advice in the comments section. And if you’re interested in a more detailed post on this topic, I’d love to hear that too. I appreciate your feedback and support!
