Someone once said that self-care is a lot like taking vitamins or flossing. You know you should do it, but most of us just don’t do it. Or at least not on a regular basis.
We’re stressed, tired, and overwhelmed with responsibilities at home and work. Plus, because you’re reading this, there’s also a good chance that you’re going through a period of grief.
Even if someone close to you has been suffering from some sort of sickness before passing on, it always seems that death comes in an instant, turning everyone’s lives upside down.
Initially, you won’t have time to take everything in. Those first few days are full of preparations, like funeral arrangements, eulogies, and other distractions.
Yet, at some point, you’re going to have to face reality. Then, once the loss really hits home, it can be too much to bear.
Then, you try to reach out, and you find out the hard way that people don’t like being around you when you’re sad. They don’t do it out of spite; they just don’t know how to help.
So, they avoid the topic altogether, which leaves the bereaved feeling isolated and even sadder.
The good news is that there are numerous ways of self-care ideas to help you during times of grief. But because everyone deals with grief, sadness, and loss in their own way, we rounded up five primary ways to take care of yourself in times of mourning.
Before we start, it’s important to mention that self-care isn’t selfish. Nor does it mean disrespecting the deceased in any way.
It’s simply learning how to embrace the grief and push through the pain. But, at the same time, without letting yourself succumb to unhealthy or destructive behaviors or habits.
Rumi once said, “The cure for pain is in the pain.” In other words, grief is all about addressing the pain, not avoiding it. Self-care can help you transition through this difficult period in your life while promoting your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Experts say the number one self-care idea during times of grief is to surround yourself with people who are close to you.
If you can’t be with them physically, technology has you covered. You can video call via Skype or Zoom and watch a movie together virtually just as a way to feel comforted by their presence.
Is video calling not an option? Then the next best thing would be a regular phone call. Ask them to listen as you vent if that’s what you need to do.
If you don’t feel like talking, then ask them to tell you about their day. Just listening to the details of their lives can help calm down the thoughts swirling around in your head. Plus, it can help get your mind off your sadness.
However, it’s worth noting that some people may not want to intrude on your time of bereavement and sorrow. So, don’t mistake their manners for a lack of love for you or disrespect.
Gather your courage and call a friend or text, “Are you free for lunch or coffee?” Think of it as a gentle reminder to let others know you’re okay with going out and being in the company of friends and family.
Find a bench in the park and just sit. You don’t have to do anything but enjoy the smells and sounds around you. Look up at the clouds, listen to the birds chirping, and watch the branches swaying in the breeze. Let your mind wander as you think about anything you want or nothing at all.
Nature has this way of relieving stress and anxiety while allowing us to feel connected to something bigger than ourselves. In fact, numerous studies have proven that being around nature regularly can help reduce blood pressure, stress, and anxiety.
The Japanese seem to have understood the importance of being close to nature as far back as the 1980s. So, they created a type of psychological exercise, which they call shinrin-yoku or ‘forest bathing.’
This type of therapy is where participants spend time in a forest. They can either walk around, sit, or even lie down on the ground and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Yet, you don’t have to ‘bathe’ in the forest to enjoy its benefits. If you’re up to it, you can go hiking or biking. It’ll give you a chance to get your mind off your grief. But, more importantly, you’ll get a good stress-relieving workout and stimulate the release of feel-good hormones in the process.
Writing has been hailed as one of the top self-care ideas ever! Whether you’re going through stress, depression, or grief, writing is how you gain perspective on your thoughts and emotions.
Some people like to journal by writing notes and letters to their loved ones who have passed on. This is a great way to work through your pain rather than avoid it. Plus, it helps bring closure, which is an essential part of the grieving process.
Alternatively, other people prefer to just let their stream of consciousness take over and simply jot down the thoughts that pop up in their heads. Then, when they read it back to themselves, they’re able to reframe their thought process and gain a clearer perspective on life that they would otherwise not be able to.
Seeing your thoughts from a different viewpoint allows you to be less critical of yourself. As a result, you become kinder and more empathetic to yourself, which enables you to be your number one supporter and advocate.
That’s all the encouragement you need to move forward. Then, slowly but surely, life will start returning back to normal.
Reading is a great way to take your mind off things for a while, which can be incredibly helpful when dealing with grief and sadness. For example, some people read books about death and losing loved ones, while others read non-fiction books about grief itself.
There’s also lots of research that reveals that reading a funny book can help alleviate some of your negative feelings and ease some of your sorrow.
If you can’t get yourself to pick up a book and read, then watch a funny sitcom. For some reason, shows that make us laugh seem to be comforting and take us to simpler times.
Fortunately, you can find plenty of grief support groups in your area. Just being with a group of people who understand how you feel can be incredibly insightful!
You don’t even have to talk if you don’t want to. Just sitting there and listening to others sharing memories, emotions, and thoughts can be a valuable part of your grieving process.
It’s also a great way for you to learn how to accept your range of emotions. Many people become afraid of what they feel and try to stifle or ignore them in the hope they’ll go away on their own. But that only makes them more potent and overpowering.
So, having that support and knowing you’re not alone can really help you embrace your feelings rather than push them away.
Another fun thing that’s been popping up is groups that focus on grief and something else. For example, there are grief groups that double as book clubs or do bicycle rides.
This way, you enjoy a couple of hours each week with a group of people who share a common interest that goes beyond bereavement. You get to share your emotions and make new friends in the process.
None of us are immune to making mistakes. Yet, those who have the skillset and confidence to learn from their mistakes are the ones who seem to do better in life.
By gaining knowledge and experience from our slip-ups, we boost people’s trust in our abilities. Not only that, but we become more capable of navigating life’s ups and downs with minimal stress and anxiety.
In this guide, I’ll discuss six tips for working through your mistakes. I’ll also talk about the psychology behind making mistakes, and how your blunders can actually help you become the best version of yourself.
So, let’s get started.
1. Own Your Mistakes
The first step in working through a mistake and learning from it is to admit it. It’s not easy owning up to our oversights, but it’s part of the process of growth and self-discovery.
Also, try not to make excuses or justify your actions. I have to admit that it’s a lot easier to hide behind some lame reason or just blame someone else for what happened.
Let’s face it; we’re all afraid of being criticized and judged. However, when you do that, you only feel good for a short while. But then, soon after, the guilt starts to eat away at you.
So, while difficult to do, holding yourself accountable will be better for you in the long run. First of all, it’ll give you peace of mind. Plus, you’ll gain the respect of your peers as well as yourself.
2. Shift Your Perspective
Why did Thomas Edison have no problem failing all those times throughout his career? Because he didn’t see his mistakes and failures as something bad to be ashamed of.
Instead, he took them as an opportunity to learn. If he’d been afraid of what people might say about his repeated mistakes when he was inventing the light bulb, he wouldn’t have made history and become one of the most famous inventors of all time.
The same goes for hundreds of successful people. Yet, we usually don’t focus on their journey. Instead, we fast forward to the part where they became famous, forgetting that they spent days and weeks slipping up and trying to fix their errors.
3. Explore Alternative Courses of Action
Once you’ve trained your mind to see the good that can come from making mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to understand what went wrong.
You’ll also know why it happened and what you can do in the future to prevent it from happening again.
Yet, probably one of the most significant advantages of making mistakes is when you’re able to dig through the rubble and come up with alternative courses of action. For example, list the facts and devise other ways to handle the same situation or something similar.
This is a great way to take advantage of what happened and use it as a stepping stone to the next big thing in your life. As a result, you’ll find it easier to work through your mistakes and manage things more effectively.
4. Stop Dwelling on the Past
It’s only natural to find yourself fixated on that time you spilled coffee all over your presentation. Or when you stumbled on your way up the stairs and nearly ran into your boss.
Yet, dwelling on the past and overthinking are two of the biggest barriers to working through your mistakes.
Not only that, but they have a negative effect on your self-esteem. As a result, you become more anxious and apprehensive and have trouble moving on.
When you feel like your negative self-talk is taking over, you have to make a conscious effort to stop it before it gains momentum. Show yourself the same kindness and empathy you’d show to a friend.
The best way to do that is to make peace with your mistakes. Tell yourself that life moves on.
You can’t change what happened. So, the best way to get over something like that is to use it to avoid making the same mistake in the future.
5. Create a Plan of Action
The next logical step is to develop a plan of action. This is where you create a vivid mental image of what you should and shouldn’t do differently to get better results.
To start, gather as much information as you can and analyze it. Then, finally, put your plan into motion.
One of the best ways to ensure your plan is successful is to rely on new resources or skills. So, why not join a class or pick up a hobby? It’ll get you involved in new experiences while exposing you to new skill sets that you can use for self-improvement.
6. Make New Mistakes
No matter how old you are or what position you hold in your workplace, you will make mistakes. They’re a natural part of growing as an individual.
The only thing you can do is to make the most of your mistake and use it as a learning tool. This way, you’ll minimize their impact on your mental and emotional health, and you’ll be able to pick up the pieces much more efficiently.
So, the next time you find yourself slipping up, try taking a solution-oriented approach rather than dwell on the actual mistake. This positive way of dealing with things will allow you to think a few steps ahead to focus more on the solution rather than the problem.
One way to learn to stop caring so much about irrelevant issues and thoughts of others is to dig in deep and study yourself in a new way to get to the bottom of the reasons you care so much to stop becoming a people pleaser.
Three ways help you get clear on why you care so much that you can use.
Journaling
You can use your computer, buy a specialized journal, or use a notebook you have created to journal. It’s up to you what type of system you use and whether it’s digital or physical.
The important part is that you try to use your journal to express your thoughts, emotions, and stream of consciousness about a problem you’re trying to solve or a feeling you’re trying to explore without judgment or censoring.
Write in your journal daily when you’re trying to uncover why you care so much. You may end up discovering your life purpose or a new reason for getting up each day that you had not realized before.
Meditation
Before you use your journal, it can help to clear your mind using meditation. Meditation practice is all about not thinking and not judging your thoughts or feelings even as they still happen during the meditation.
Each time you meditate, you can have a purpose of self-discovery or have a goal to clear your mind and relax. To practice this type of meditation, you’ll want to find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Then concentrate on your goals for the meditation, close your eyes, and start focusing on your breathing.
Think about the situation you’re trying to understand for a moment, then clear your mind. If any intrusive thoughts come in, brush them aside by refocusing on your breathing. You must not allow any outside information or sensation to distract you during this time.
Therapy
These days you’re so fortunate because you can get psychological therapy from the comfort of your home using your computer or smartphone. Numerous companies offer this service and varying price points, but you can expect to pay $60 or more per hour to get therapy. In addition, many insurance companies include several sessions as part of your benefits.
If you seek therapy, make sure you find someone experienced working with you on overcoming people-pleasing and putting yourself last in life. Remember, your wants and needs matter too. Most therapists can guide you through the self-discovery process to finally know what you want and feel good about it regardless of the reactions from other people.
Any or all three of these methods help you become clear regarding your motivations to seek approval from others and even help you stop doing it. Remember, what you want from life is important too, and following someone else’s dreams will never get you what you want and need to feel successful and, more importantly, satisfied and content in your life.
Everyone has different ideas of what self-care looks like. For some, it’s getting a massage or going for a run. For others, it’s taking a nice long bath or reading their favorite book. While there is no “right” way to practice self-care, there are some things that we can all do to make sure that we are taking care of our psychological and mental health. Here are 30 self-care tips for optimal psychological and mental health.
Get Enough Sleep: Though often overlooked, sleep is essential for maintaining good mental health. When we sleep, our brains are able to rest and repair themselves from the previous day. This process is important for consolidating memories, reducing stress, and improving mood and focus.
Additionally, sleep deprivation can lead to a host of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and irritability. For these reasons, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough restful sleep each night.
This is the one I struggle with the most. I’ve tried so many things to get a good night’s sleep. Working with a good doctor to uncover any medical reasons why you might be struggling to get proper sleep is an important step.
There are a few simple steps that you can take to promote better sleep, such as disconnecting from electronics before bed, establishing a regular sleep schedule, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are getting the restful sleep that your mind needs to stay healthy and happy.
Eat Healthy: Eating healthy has been linked with better mental health, including less anxiety and depression. Researchers believe that the connection between diet and mental health is due to the fact that food affects the function of the brain. For example, certain nutrients are necessary for the production of neurotransmitters, which help to regulate mood.
For example, omega-3 fatty acids are linked to improving cognitive function and overall mental health. In addition, inflammation has been linked with both physical and mental health problems.
Eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help to reduce inflammation, while processed foods and sugary drinks promote it. As a result, following a healthy diet is not only good for your physical health, but also for your mental well-being.
Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but did you know that it can also impact your mental health? Dehydration can cause fatigue, headache, and trouble concentrating. It can also make you feel irritable and anxious. In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to delirium or hallucinations.
That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re drinking enough water every day. Eight glasses a day is a good rule of thumb, but you may need more if you’re exercising or in a hot climate. And be sure to avoid sugary drinks like soda, which can actually dehydrate you further. So next time you’re feeling down, reach for a glass of water instead of a cup of coffee – your mind will thank you for it.
Exercise Regularly: Exercise is important for physical health, but it can also have a profound impact on mental health. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce levels of stress and anxiety, improve mood and cognitive function, and help to prevent cognitive decline. For people who are struggling with mental health issues, exercise can be an important part of treatment.
Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, and it can also help to increase self-esteem and improve sleep quality. In addition, exercise can provide an opportunity for social interaction and can help to reduce feelings of isolation. For all these reasons, exercise is an important part of maintaining mental health.
Take Breaks: It’s important to take breaks throughout the day to recharge your batteries and keep your mental health in check. Even if you’re not feeling particularly stressed, taking a few minutes to yourself can make a world of difference. If you can, step away from your desk or workstation and take a walk outside. Breathe in some fresh air and take in your surroundings.
If you can’t get outside, take a break indoors in a quiet place. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Allow your mind to wander or think about something pleasant. You may also want to try some simple stretching exercises to release any tension you’re holding in your body. Taking regular breaks will help you stay focused and productive, and it will also do wonders for your mental health.
Connect With People: Mental illness can be incredibly isolating, making it difficult to connect with others. However, this study (Social Relationships and Health: A Flashpoint for Health Policy, Debra Umberson, Jennifer Karas Montez) have shown that social interaction can be beneficial for mental health. Whether it’s joining a support group, volunteering, or simply spending time with friends and family, interacting with others can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. In addition, social interaction can provide a sense of purpose and improve self-esteem.
So if you’re struggling with your mental health, reach out to others and make a connection. This will not only put you in a better mood but will help affect your mental space positively.
Do Something You Enjoy: Make time for activities that make you happy. This can be anything from playing a sport to painting to cooking. Everyone has their own method of unwinding and relaxing after a long day. For some, it might be watching an episode of their favorite show, while others might prefer going for a walk outdoors.
Regardless of what you enjoy doing, taking some time for yourself is important for maintaining your mental health. When you do something, you enjoy, it can help to reduce stress levels and improve your mood. In addition, taking a break from your everyday routine can give you a chance to reflect on your goals and refocus your energy.
So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take some time for yourself and do something you enjoy. It might just be the thing you need to boost your mental health. When you focus on doing things you love, it’s hard not to feel good mentally.
Drink In Moderation: Drinking alcohol can have both positive and negative effects on your mental health. According to a growing body of research, moderate alcohol consumption can have a positive impact on mental health. Studies (The psychological benefits of moderate alcohol consumption: a review of the literature, C Baum-Baicker) have shown that moderate drinkers are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than those who abstain from alcohol altogether. Additionally, moderate drinking has been linked with lower rates of cognitive decline and dementia. While the exact mechanisms behind these effects are still not fully understood, it is clear that moderate drinking can have some benefits for mental health.
Of course, it is important to remember that moderation is key. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a host of problems, including mental and physical health issues. So if you do choose to drink, be sure to do so in moderation. Your mind will thank you for it.
Connect With A Loved One: If you’re feeling low, anxious, or depressed, talking to someone who cares can be very helpful. Most people have someone they can rely on for support, whether it’s a family member, significant other, friend, or even a pet. In times of stress, anxiety, or depression, reaching out to this loved one can make all the difference.
They can provide a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or simply a distraction from whatever is causing distress. For some people, talking about their problems is enough to start feeling better; for others, taking action steps with their loved one’s help can be more beneficial. Just knowing that someone cares and is willing to help can be incredibly reassuring. So if you’re feeling down, don’t hesitate to reach out to your loved ones – they just might be the best medicine.
Be Mindful: In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, it’s more important than ever to take a moment to focus on our mental health. Though it’s often viewed as taboo, mental health is just as important as physical health, and we should all take steps to improve our well-being.
One way to do this is to be more mindful of our thoughts and actions. Instead of letting our minds race from one thing to the next, we can try to focus on the present moment and be more aware of our surroundings. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety and lead to a more positive outlook on life. Additionally, taking care of our physical health can also have a positive impact on our mental health.
Eating a balanced diet, getting enough exercise, and getting enough sleep are all important for maintaining a healthy mind and body. By making small changes in our daily routines, we can have a big impact on our mental well-being.
Practice Self-Compassion: Self-compassion has been shown to be associated with greater well-being and Mental Health. Despite this, many people still find it hard to be kind to themselves when they make mistakes or feel like they’re not good enough. The first step to practicing self-compassion is to be mindful of your self-talk.
Notice the things you say to yourself when you make a mistake or get rejected. Would you say those same things to a friend? If not, try to replace them with more compassionate phrases. For example, instead of telling yourself “I’m such an idiot”, try saying “Everyone makes mistakes”.
Secondly, try to extend compassion to yourself even when you don’t deserve it. Just like you would comfort a friend who is going through a tough time, try to show yourself the same kindness and understanding. Lastly, remember that imperfection is part of being human. We all have flaws and no one is perfect. By practicing self-compassion, we can learn to accept ourselves.
Set Boundaries And Say “No” When You Need To Take Care Of Yourself: It can be difficult to set boundaries, especially when you’re used to saying “yes” all the time. But learning to say “no” is an important part of taking care of yourself. Setting boundaries allows you to control what comes into your life, and how much of your time and energy you spend on others. This can be especially important for people who tend to put others’ needs before their own. If you’re always saying “yes” to requests, you may not have time for the things that are truly important to you. You may also end up feeling resentful and taken advantage of. Learning to set boundaries requires practice, but it’s worth the effort. When you start setting limits, you may find that you have more time for the things you love and that your relationships are more equitable and satisfying.
Forgive Yourself: It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you’re struggling with mental health. You might feel like you’re not doing enough, or like you should be able to just “snap out of it.” But the truth is that mental illness is a real and serious condition that deserves compassion and understanding – including from yourself. One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to learn to forgive yourself.
This doesn’t mean making excuses for your behavior or downplaying the seriousness of your condition. Rather, it’s about giving yourself the same grace and compassion that you would extend to others.
It’s about acknowledging that you’re doing the best you can and that your mistakes do not define you as a person. When you can learn to forgive yourself, you’ll find it easier to weather the storms of mental illness and come out stronger on the other side.
Avoid Comparing Yourself To Others: One of the worst things you can do is compare yourself to others. Constantly comparing yourself to those around you is a surefire way to destroy your self-confidence and happiness. It’s important to remember that everyone is on their own unique journey and comparing your own progress to someone else’s is rarely productive or accurate. So next time you find yourself getting caught up in comparison, take a step back and focus on your own journey.
Spend Time In Nature To Appreciate The Beauty Of The World Around You: One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the world around you is to spend time in nature. Immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the natural world can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
A study (Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence, Marcia P. Jimenez, Nicole V. DeVille, Elise G. Elliott, Jessica E. Schiff, Grete E. Wilt, Jaime E. Hart, and Peter James) shows that spending time in nature can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase levels of serotonin, the feel-good chemical.
Being in nature can also help to reduce rumination, a type of repetitive thinking that can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, exposure to sunlight can help to improve your mood and boost your energy levels. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or down, head outdoors and take in the beauty of nature.
Set Goals And Priorities: When it comes to mental health, it is important to set goals and priorities. This will help you focus on what is important and better manage your time and resources. It is also important to be realistic in setting goals and priorities. If you set unrealistic goals, you are likely to become frustrated and discouraged.
Therefore, it is essential to take into account your current situation and capabilities when setting goals for mental health. Once you have identified your goals, you can begin to develop a plan for how to achieve them.
This plan should be actionable and specific and include a timeline for completion. By taking the time to develop a plan, you are more likely to achieve your mental health goals.
Write Affirmations: You can improve your mental health by writing affirmations. Start by identifying some of the negative thought patterns that you want to change. Then, craft some positive statements that counter those negative thoughts.
For example, if you’re trying to overcome anxiety, you might write affirmations like, “I am calm and in control,” or “I am safe.” Recite your affirmations aloud, multiple times each day. Doing so will help to reprogram your brain and set you on the path to a more positive mindset.
Who doesn’t love to hear nice things about themselves anyways? Take that first step to a positive mindset by telling yourself how much you love yourself today!
Practice Gratitude: According to Harvard Medical School, practicing gratitude has numerous benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression and sharpening your brain function. It also gives us peace of mind by reminding us of what we are fortunate enough to have.
Take some time to write down a few things you’re grateful for in a journal. This is my favorite gratitude journal. I’ve used it for a couple of years.
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You can even write them down on some sticky notes to put on your bathroom mirror. If that sounds daunting, simply begin your day by thinking about someone or something you truly appreciate. This is one of the easiest ways to start your day on the right foot.
Focus On Positivity: Piggybacking off the last tip for mental health, look to specifically focus on positivity. Positivity can take many forms, from happy thoughts and memories to thinking calmly and constructively about problems. By focusing on the positive, we train our brains to think more optimistically and constructively, which has benefits for both our mental and physical health. Get your brain used to the positives in life rather than the negatives and you can see your mood change quickly.
Get A House Plant: Many people don’t realize that having a plant in their home can greatly improve their mental health. This study (Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study, Min-sun Lee, Juyoung Lee, Bum-Jin Park, and Yoshifumi Miyazaki) shows that plants can help to reduce stress levels, improve concentration, and even boost moods. In addition, plants help to purify the air and can increase levels of oxygen in the home.
As a result, houseplants can be an easy and effective way to improve mental health. There are a wide variety of plants to choose from, so it’s easy to find one that suits your needs. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant, consider getting a succulent or cactus.
For something that will help purify the air, try an ivy or spider plant. Or, if you’re looking for a plant that will boost your mood, consider getting a jasmine or lavender plant.
Switch Your Daily Coffee For A Cup Of Tea: In the morning, millions of people around the world reach for a cup of coffee to help them start their day. However, coffee isn’t the only beverage that can give you a boost of energy. Tea is another excellent option that comes with a host of additional benefits.
For one, tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help to improve your overall health. Additionally, tea has been shown to promote weight loss and protect against heart disease. So if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee, consider switching to tea.
Get A Massage: Massage therapy is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. Researchers found that massage therapy reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol in both men and women. In addition, participants who received massage therapy reported feeling less anxious and more positive than those who did not receive massage therapy.
Studies find massage therapy has also been shown to improve sleep quality and increase feelings of well-being. If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, consider making an appointment with a licensed massage therapist.
Massage therapy can provide you with much-needed relief from your symptoms and help you to feel better overall.
Read A Book: A lot of people nowadays are so focused on their work that they forget to take care of themselves. And while it’s true that a good work ethic is important, it’s also important to remember that your mental health is just as vital as your physical health. One way to help keep your mind healthy is to read a book.
Books can provide an escape from the everyday stresses of life, and they can also teach you new things and help you to see the world in different ways. In addition, reading has been shown to improve brain function and memory. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take some time out for yourself and pick up a book.
Practice Meditation: Meditation has been practiced for centuries, and it has a number of proven benefits for both the mind and body. In recent years, meditation has been gaining popularity as a way to improve mental health. According to mayoclinic.org meditation can help to reduce anxiety and depression, improve focus and concentration, and even enhance memory. What’s more, meditation is easy to learn and can be practiced anywhere.
There are many different types of meditation, so it’s important to find one that suits your needs. If you’re looking to improve your mental health, consider taking 5 minutes today to meditate.
Spend Some Time With Your Pet: There are many benefits to spending time with your pet. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also provide social support and increase opportunities for physical activity.
I can attest to that. That’s my boxer in that pic. He’s one of three dogs we have. He makes me laugh every day. We’ve had a lot of pets over the years. One of my favorites was a bearded dragon that we rescued. We’ve had dogs, cats, bearded dragons, geckos, monitors, snakes, and various other pets. Each one was unique in its own way.
Pets can also help build confidence and self-esteem. However, it’s important to remember that not all pets are right for everyone. If you’re considering getting a pet, it’s important to do your research to find an animal that will be a compatible fit for your lifestyle.
Look to your friends and family with pets to see which best fits your personality. Once you’ve found the perfect pet, spending some time bonding with them each day can provide numerous mental health benefits.
Let Your Creative Side Out: We all have a creative side, even if we don’t realize it. And according to experts, expressing creativity can be good for our mental health. “The creative arts are a way of externalizing feelings and thoughts that might be difficult to put into words,” says psychologist Katherine Mineka. “They can be a form of communication.” That’s why many therapists use art, music, and other forms of creative expression in their work with patients.
There’s also growing evidence that engaging in creative activities can have a positive impact on our mental well-being. One study (Art Therapy: A Complementary Treatment for Mental Disorders, Jingxuan Hu, Jinhuan Zhang, Liyu Hu, Haibo Yu, and Jinping Xu) found that people who took part in a 12-week art therapy program had reduced levels of anxiety and depression. Another found that seniors who participated in a weekly art class had improved cognitive function and less social isolation.
So what’s the best way to let your creative side out? There’s no wrong answer – anything that gets you to express yourself is worth doing. Whether you enjoy painting, writing, photography, or any other form of creativity, find some time in your schedule to pursue it.
Unplug An Hour Before Bed: Most people are familiar with the importance of getting a good night’s sleep for physical health, but few realize that sleep is also critical for mental well-being. One way to ensure a good night’s sleep is to unplug electronics an hour before bed.
The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep. In addition, the stimulating content of many electronic devices can make it more difficult to relax and unwind before bed.
By disconnecting from electronics an hour before bedtime, you can give your mind and body the chance to wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. As a result, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Stop Hitting The Snooze Button: It’s the sound we all dread in the morning, that blaring alarm clock that means it’s time to start the day. For many of us, the first instinct is to hit the snooze button and drift back into a blissful sleep for a few more minutes.
However, recent research suggests that hitting the snooze button may do more harm than good when it comes to our mental health. When we wake up abruptly and then go back to sleep, our brains enter a state known as “micro-sleep.” This can lead to confusion and disorientation, which can make it difficult to focus and be productive throughout the day.
In addition, research has shown that people who hit the snooze button are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. So next time your alarm goes off, resist the urge to hit snooze and give yourself a chance to start the day on a positive note.
Unclutter Your Life: One important step you can take to improve your mental health is to unclutter your life. That means decluttering your physical space, as well as your schedule and your relationships. When your environment is cluttered, it can be difficult to focus and relax.
The same is true of your schedule. If you try to pack too much into each day, you’ll end up feeling stressed and overwhelmed. And finally, it’s important to declutter your relationships.
Surround yourself with positive people who make you feel good about yourself. Let go of any Toxic relationships that are dragging you down. By decluttering your life, you can create the peace and space necessary for a healthy mind.
See A Therapist: Many people experience mental health problems at some point in their lives, but for some, these problems can be long-lasting and have a profound impact on their daily lives. If you are struggling to cope with your mental health, it may be time to seek professional help.
A therapist can provide you with support and guidance as you work through your challenges. In addition, therapy can help you to develop healthy coping mechanisms and reduce the symptoms of your mental health problem. If you are feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. See a therapist today and start on the path to recovery.
Bonus Tip – Volunteer Work: The saying is true, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself first is important. However, helping others feels good. There are so many ways to give back. I’ve made lasagna for others through Lasagna Love. Not only are you helping someone else, the boost it gives your mental health is a nice bonus.
Final Thoughts Taking care of your psychological and mental health is important for living a happy and fulfilled life. There are many different ways to practice self-care, but the most important thing is that you find what works for you.
Experiment with different activities until you find a routine that makes you feel good mentally and emotionally. Remember, if you ever feel like you need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is always available.
Welcome everyone to Old People Wisdom. I wanted to introduce myself and talk about the vision for OPW. I was sitting one day thinking about the things I wish I had known when I was younger. They say with age comes wisdom, and there is some truth to that. Yes, we all know some older people that don’t seem wise, and we know some young people that have shown immense wisdom. However, you have to admit that most of you have gained some wisdom in the last 5, 10, 20 years. Life has a way of teaching things the hard way.
I wanted to find a way to give back and help others. This idea popped into my head one night when I was thinking about how averse I am to trying new things. I’ve always been this way. I wish I had tried more things when I was younger. I wish I was encouraged to try more things when I was younger. Fear always got in my way. Have you ever heard of the YouTube page, “Dad, how do I?”? It’s an amazing man who shows people how to do everything from unclog a sink to how to jumpstart a car to how to tie a tie and one just expressing how proud he is of YOU. Not everyone grew up with both parents. Some of us had an absent father. Some had no father at all. We relied on other family and neighbors to teach us, but we were fortunate to have those people in our life. Some aren’t that lucky. I don’t know how to tie a tie, but I have gathered some wisdom over my 5+ decades on earth. I can share that with you all. I’m old, but I’m not super old. Just because it’s called Old People Wisdom, doesn’t mean that all the wisdom is going to come from old people. It’ll be a mix of every cross section of life. Diversity is important.
So all that being said, I’d like to establish a few things right off the bat. Greg Reid (Award Winning Author, Speaker, and Film Producer) gave a great analogy. I’ll likely butcher what he said, (Forgive me Greg!) but this was the summation. He held up his hand and said it was filled with sand. The sand was the opinions, advice, etc of others. If it doesn’t help you, let that grain of sand slip right through your fingers. The ones that do though, grab on to them and use them. I’d like you to do that here. If something doesn’t speak to you, leave it. If you know someone it could help, share it with them. If it’s speaking to you, grab on to it and do some contemplation and use it to better your life.
The goal is to have a weekly column. I’ll try to have extra content on our social media sites. No promises. My life is very hectic. If you’d like to hear about a particular topic, let me know in the comments. I might just include it in the future. I have a huge list that I want to cover already. If this thing takes off, I’ve got some pretty interesting family, friends, mentors, and acquaintances that are very wise. Maybe I can convince some of them to come join us.
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