How’s your mental health? May is #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth and this has been observed in the United States since 1949. For 2022, the theme is “Back to Basics”. The goal is to spread basic knowledge and information about mental health.
We’ve rounded up the easy and basic ways in which you can shape your mental health.
1. Keep Moving
Staying active has many benefits not only to our physical health but also to our mental health. Regular exercising decreases stress and helps in depression and anxiety. You don’t have to limit yourself in exercising in the gym. There are a lot of physical activities that you can try.
Go on a hike
Now that we are back to exploring the outside world, might as well take advantage of this to stay active. You can invite friends or even join groups of hikers to enjoy the beauty of nature. Total win-win!
Top hike spots: The Wave (Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona), Highline Trail (Glacier National Park, Montana), Cadillac Mountain Summit (Acadia National Park, Maine).
Go for a swim
Fun fact: The color blue improves your mental well-being. Blue tones are said to have a soothing effect that helps in calming our minds and aids our concentration. No wonder we feel better whenever we go for a swim. Plus the sunset and the beautiful skies on the beach are a dream!
Top beach destinations: Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, South Beach, Miami, Florida, East Hampton Main Beach, New York.
2. Enhance Your Skills
Doing something we love and we’re good at always makes us happy. So why not level our skills up a notch by enrolling in classes. You’ll not only gain more knowledge but you’ll also meet new people who share the same passion as yours.
Make the kitchen your playground
It’s time to master that skill of baking and cooking and be the next Michelin star. Serve great food to your family and friends and you can even start your own small business after.
Squeeze out those creative juices
Whether you love arts, crafts, painting, or music, making art improves mental health through creativity. It also allows you to express yourself and turn your visions into a magical piece of art.
3. Find A Support System
People who are going through tough times often feel that they are alone and they are afraid to seek help. This could still be because of the stigma around mental health. Remember, you are not alone and there are organizations that will help you in finding meaning and purpose.
Organizations that can help: Bring Change to Mind (BC2M), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health (NFFCMH).
4. Bring On The Mindfulness
Taking the time to relax and practice mindfulness improves one's overall well-being. Reduced stress, better sleep, and improved cognitive and memory are just a few benefits of mindfulness. With technology, you can practice it anytime and anywhere through mobile applications.
Top mindfulness apps: Headspace, Calm, Breethe.
Caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your body. There is no shame in seeking help. Together, we can end the stigma about mental health.
Any tips you’d like to add? Let us know in the comments and connect with us on social @shapermint.
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