9 tips to care for your mental health that aren’t meditation

While the benefits of meditation are hard to dispute, it is something that may not come naturally to all of us, and it can take practice and patience to master.

If meditation isn’t for you, here are some simple top tips on how you can care for your mental health that don’t involve deep breathing exercises or guided meditations.

Tip 1. – Get cuddly and snuggly with your pet

Some research suggests that the human-animal bond can help lower anxiety levels and help control blood pressure. Plus, it can feel really nice be on the receiving end of the unconditional love and affection that pets provide (complete with a face full of whiskers and wet kisses!)

Tip 2 – Get grateful

Write a list of all the things that make you happy. When focusing on the positive we focus less on the negative. This can result in increased joy, satisfaction, more appreciation and positive behavior. So get writing! It can be anything that brings you joy, like one of my favorites – getting into bed with clean sheets with fresh pajamas for example.

Tip 3 – Get social

A great way to give your mental health a boost is to interact with your friends and family (well most family anyway). Humans are social beings and being isolated can have a big impact on our overall health. Jump on a group chat, call up your best friend for a lunch date or meet at the park with the kids for a socially distanced play date.

Tip 4 – Get some fresh air

Spending time outdoors can reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol and reduce blood pressure and your heart rate. There are lots of options, you can search the internet for free local outdoor events in your community or pop into the garden for the afternoon. For the added bonus of physical exercise go for a walk in your neighborhood, just don’t forget to Slip, Slop and Slap sun protection.

Tip 5 – Get some of the good stuff in you

There is no doubt that what we fuel our bodies with does affect our moods, feelings and cognitive function. A diet that is focused on fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can help to boost mental health. Fill your plate with the good stuff and your mind and body will thank you for it.

Tip 6 – Get some zzzzz’s

Sleep isn’t a magic cure but it certainly will make a difference if you aren’t getting enough. Insufficient sleep alters the way our bodies respond to stress, immunity, inflammation and overall health, plus it makes us irritable, in other words not very pleasant to be around. Aim for 7-8 hours a night to keep a case of the crankies at bay.

Tip 7 – Get some time in for self care

Whatever this might look like for you – reading a book, doing some yoga, taking a bath or shower with all the smelly lotions and potions, a bright green facemask – we don’t judge, just dedicate some time for you to give yourself some care.

Tip 8 – Get your vacation vibe on

When we are on holidays, we treat ourselves, stress less, explore more. Bring some of those vacation vibes into your everyday life. Turn your phone off, become a tourist in your own community and visit all the attractions, go to the beach and build a sandcastle, whatever brings you joy.

Tip 9 – Get support

This is our most important tip, if you are struggling with your feelings and emotions, seek support. There is no limit that needs to be reached before help is warranted. Our Counselling services are available to anyone experiencing emotional difficulties which are impacting their day-to-day life.

Our Counsellors actively work to improve the physical, mental and social well-being of individuals, families and communities. To make an appointment phone 9430 9100.