Mental and Emotional Health: Boundaries Work Wonders
By Genevieve Cunningham
When it comes to health, we often forget about or neglect our mental and emotional well-being. We remember physical health -- the eating right and exercising part. But emotions and feelings? We don’t really want to think about that. Unfortunately, mental and emotional health is just as important as physical, and in some instances, may be even more important. So how do we protect this aspect of our health and wellness? To protect both mental and emotional health in one step, take a look at the importance of setting boundaries in your life.
Why are Mental and Emotional Health Important?
We all know why physical health is important. Physical wellness improves body function, protects us from injury and illness, and helps us maintain good general health. When it comes to mental and emotional health, we're mostly talking about quality of life. Poor mental and emotional well-being leads to a decline in quality of life and a negative perspective on each day. It can leave us feeling depressed, fatigued, and generally negative about life.
What Do Boundaries Have To Do With It?
When it comes to physical health, we know that exercise and a healthy diet can do wonders. But it’s a bit more complicated for mental and emotional well-being. Why? Because there is much less information available. One thing that most professionals agree is a step in the right direction is to set appropriate boundaries. Boundaries are simply lines drawn in the sand. They let ourselves and others know how much we can take and what we simply won’t tolerate. They help set limits and provide guidelines. And for emotional and mental wellness, setting and maintaining expectations helps with stress relief and long-term health.
How Do You Set Personal Boundaries?
In order to set boundaries, it’s important to be honest with yourself. What are you willing to deal with? Is there anything that stresses you to the point of no return? Think about the things that you can and cannot tolerate, and go from there. This might involve giving up certain activities. It might include avoiding stressful people. No matter what you choose to do, the most important thing is to stick with the boundaries that you find most comfortable and request that others respect them as well.
Setting boundaries can be tedious. It requires a lot of self reflection and self discipline. But it’s necessary if you want to maintain health and wellness. Get serious about your overall health, set healthy boundaries, and enjoy better emotional and mental health for the rest of your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Marietta, Ga.