5 Methods for Boosting Mental Health
By Brandi Goodman
Maintaining mental health isn't always easy. Some people can struggle significantly with keeping their thoughts and emotions from getting the best of them and letting stress take over their mind. With a few methods, however, anyone can begin boosting their mental health and experience a better outlook on life.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
A common tip is to write down negative thoughts so they no longer dwell on the mind. You can even throw the paper away when you're done. A more positive method for freeing the mind of the negative and focusing on the good is to keep a gratitude journal instead. Each day, jot down at least one thing you were happy about or thankful for that day. It could be as simple as a stranger who smiled as they walked by you or perhaps a compliment received at work on a job well done. You can look back at these happy moments any time you're feeling down and see that things aren't all bad.
Laugh!
Laughing reduces stress and is good for the immune system. Watch a funny movie. Find a funny video online. Check out some stand-up comics you haven't seen before. Attend a comedy show. Even getting together with a friend and laughing can do wonders. Do what you can to add more laughter to your life for improved well-being.
Change Your Sleep Habits
Although it's easier said than done, getting more sleep is a great way to improve mood and mental clarity. Not getting enough rest can lead people to feel exhausted, ill-tempered, and depressed. You may need to change your sleeping habits to make this work. Use lavender in a diffuser. Get light and noise-blocking curtains. Take a bath before you head to bed. Listen to some white noise. There are ways to help yourself fall asleep easier so you can get the good night's rest you deserve.
Take Up a New Hobby
Engaging in a new hobby or learning something new can help to expand your mind. You're more likely to experience a positive outlook if you feel good about yourself and what you're doing in your free time. Reading an article about a topic you know nothing about can be the start. Perhaps you'll start reading more.
Get Up and Move
People who sit around feeling sorry for themselves and never moving off their couch are not going to help their mental health. Exercise has long been known as a way to release endorphins and feel-good hormones that can impact the brain. Get up and move more often. Exercise when you can and see how it changes your mood.
Use one or more of these methods when your mental health is on the decline. A boost in mood and reduction in stress can lead to improved health and well-being overall.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Apex, N.C.