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Mental Selfcare- taking control of factors that influence your mental well being.
Mental well being: feeling in control, the ability to cope with normal stressors of life, having a sense of belonging and support. Sound good? There are ways to strengthen your mental well being. Start here by choosing one that fits you and adding more as you're able. |
Are you taking care of your mental well being?
Take this short quiz and find out. |
Mindfulness |
“Mindfulness is the act of being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling at every moment – without interpretation or judgment.” (Mayo Clinic) With intentional practice, thoughts can be calmed and you can reclaim the moment, leading to a calmer mental state. There are also amazing physical benefits to practicing mindfulness.
For more information as well as links to apps and practices, check out a whole page on Mindfulness. |
Laughter and a Sense of Humor |
From the National Institute of Health: "Laughter is a positive sensation, and seems to be a useful and healthy way to overcome stress." Also, "Laughter therapy, as a non-pharmacological, alternative treatment, has a positive effect on the mental health and the immune system."
From the Mayo Clinic: "Laughter is a great form of stress relief, and that's no joke." Laughter has both short term and long term effects. In the short term, a good laugh can stimulate organs, relieve your stress response, and sooth tension. Long term, it can improve your immune system, relieve pain, improve mood, and increase personal satisfaction. It turns out laughter, and maintaining a sense of humor really may be the best medicine. |
Create Boundaries |
We know that creating boundaries-- saying "no" to people or asks-- is necessary for our mental well being. We also know it's easier said than done! How do you determine what or who to say "no" to, and then how to walk away without feeling guilt? It starts by knowing your core values. Knowing your values will make it easier to say "no" and create a path for when to say "yes."
There's a guide that will help sort it out. My Core Values (guide) |
Digital Detox |
Socialize |
Spend time with people whose company you enjoy. How many friends? The number is up to you. Both introverts and extroverts benefit equally from good relations, the size and quality of those relationships may differ. The key is spending quality time with another human being who makes you feel safe and understood. If you are that friend, remember you don't have to fix another person's problems, you just need to make sure that person feels understood.
Benefits from socializing: longevity, boost in happiness, reduced stress, increased sense of purpose and belonging, help in coping, and fun. Building healthy relationships is a good investment in your well being! |