It’s Mental Health Month, a good time to remind ourselves of the importance of self care. Here are 10 quick tips for keeping stress under control:
1. Stick to a schedule. Our lives have been in a constant state of change since the start of the Covid pandemic. Create sleep, eating, work, and socializing routines to help maintain a sense of calm and predictability.
2. Exercise every day. Research shows that movement helps regulate mood. The weather is getting warmer, plus there are are lots of free fitness classes available online. Get moving and you’ll feel fitter physically and emotionally.
3. Connect with friends and family. Many people are suffering from feelings of loneliness. Even if you’re physically apart from loved ones, call them or schedule a Zoom “meeting.” They will feel better and so will you.
4. Eat healthfully. Boost your immunity by eating fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure you are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. Keep meals interesting by trying new recipes.
5. Breathe deeply. Slow, deep abdominal breathing decreases a rapid heartbeat, stabilizes or lowers blood pressure, and relaxes our minds and bodies. Inhale and exhale, being mindful of taking time to fill your body with energizing and calming breath.
6. Share your emotions. Holding on to your feelings increases anxiety and, in some cases, depression. Talk about your feelings with people you trust. Expressing them will help you process them.
7. Learn a new skill. Acquiring a new language or skill can feel like a grand adventure. The educational options online are infinite.
8. Make time for yourself. No matter how demanding your job and family responsibilities, be sure to find a few minutes each day for yourself. Take a bath, read a book, or call a friend.
9. Practice gratitude. Every day focus on one blessing in your life. Positive thinking is a healthy habit that strengthens resilience. Just as stress is contagious so are gratitude and hope. Concentrate less on the former and more on the latter.
10. Express your love. Tell and show the people you care about how much you love them. Being surrounded by warm, caring feelings makes every life challenge more tolerable.
