World Mental Health Day
We’ve spent most of this year doing our best to stay safe and healthy, and although we are referring to our physical well-being, our mental health is just as important. Today is World Mental Health Day: a day to bring awareness to struggles that many of us face, especially during these times. Feelings of anxiety and uncertainty are common, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as we adjust to a constantly changing “new normal”. It’s good to recognize that most of us share these same feelings, and although there is little we can do to control the outside world right now, we can certainly make sure to take care of ourselves: mind, body and soul.
Keep Calm & Self-Care
It may not always be easy to stay calm in our current situation but finding ways to manage our stress and focus on the good around us is key. 2020 has required most of us to reprioritize our lives; we’ve slowed down, reconnected with loved ones and learned to find pleasure in the little things, but let’s remember to put ourselves at the top of that priority list. Here are some tried and true tips:
Get your zzz’s
Getting a good night’s sleep has always been linked to physical and mental well-being, but at a time when we find ourselves less physically active, sleep may not come as easily now. It’s common to feel drained and exhausted yet still toss and turn, so if catching a mid-afternoon nap when needed is your way to catch up, don’t feel guilty about it.
Take a walk
At the beginning of the year, taking a walk became the go-to form of getting fresh air and exercise, but as businesses slowly started opening again, we were able to resume some of our former habits and hobbies. Even if we can’t all return to the gym or start playing sports again, the mental health benefits of taking a walk are huge. Fresh air, Vitamin D, and leisurely activity all go a long way in soothing your nerves and helping you get those sweet dreams.
Pamper yourself
Self-care is too commonly confused with selfishness but doing something special for yourself from time to time is necessary. We all need ‘me time’, so whether it be watching your favorite movie or creating a home spa experience, set time aside just for you, because we are better to others when we are better to ourselves.
Reach out and be kind
It’s hard to be social in a socially distant setting, but reaching out to loved ones, connecting with old (and new) friends and opening up to the people around us are essential for our well-being. The solidarity we feel when we talk about our challenges and realize we aren’t alone creates a sense of comfort that we need right now. It’s also a time when we need to remember to spread kindness, because despite the frustrations we’re all facing, we all have a little extra love to give.
We’re still all in this together, so join our community!
#ardenecares