5 Ways to be kind to your mind
In this article, we share with you five simple ways to be kind to your mind.
First, what does it mean to be kind to your mind. Well to be kind to your mind, simply means to show care, gentleness, grace, and compassion to the way you think, feel, act, and connect. It is the intentional recognition and acknowledgment of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. To be kind to your mind means prioritizing your mental health and taking ownership of your mental and emotional well-being.
As you navigate the challenges of your life, whether those challenges are related to work, family, school, etc. you must take care of yourself and that care includes your mental health.
So how can you be kind to your mind? Glad you asked. Here are five tips.
Balance consumption of information from media sources.
We are constantly bombarded with so much information. Good information. Bad information. Sad information. Misinformation. Sometimes it is too much and have negative consequences on the way in which we act, think, feel, and connect. Your mental health is similar to your physical health. If you want to be healthy physically you watch and manage what you are consuming. In order to be kind to your mind, limit media consumption and consume that which nourishes and fuels your mental health.
Engage in routine mental health check-ins with yourself and those around you by asking questions such as:
Have I given myself the space and time to process my thoughts, feelings, and emotions?
What do I need (from others and myself)?
When was last time I felt joy and happiness?
Where can I make adjustments to improve my life and overall well-being?
How are you doing? Ask this question of yourself and others. When asking of others wait for their response. Typically this question is asked as a formality in conversation, however many people fail to await a genuine response. Your express your concern and care by not only asking this question but also by displaying patience for an authentic response.
Know it is okay to not always feel or be okay
We are humans. It is normal and it is okay for us to experience moments in which we do not feel so great. Allow yourself permission to feel and be gentle with yourself. When you allow yourself permission to feel you allow yourself permission to process your emotions, feelings, and any correlating thoughts. Your emotions and feelings are not meant to be suppressed, your emotions and feelings are a part of who you are.
Initiate contact and connection with friends and family who invigorate you
Community and connection are two critical components of mental health that are often overlooked. Studies have shown individuals with higher levels of connectedness to others tend to experience lower levels of depression and anxiety. The way in which we relate and connect to others plays a huge factor in our mental health and well-being. During this time, when many feel isolated and limited in their ability to connect with others, be creative, use the gift of technology, think outside the box and explore was to connect with others and create community. It is in our connection with others where we find the encouragement to be our authentic selves and find a place to belong. As humans we are innately wired to connect with others. There is beauty in community and power in connection.
Nourish your body with plenty of water and healthy foods
Food impacts your mental health and well-being. Studies show there is a direct correlation between our diet and our mental health. Food significantly impacts our mood. Make sure you are limiting your intake of sugar and processed foods. Consuming whole foods, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fruits, and foods rich in antioxidants and fiber. You may also consider incorporating a multivitamin into your diet along with a probiotic, and vitamin d supplement.
Decide your mental health matters and take steps to ensure your health and well-being. Give yourself permission today and every day to be kind to your mind. You matter. Your mental health matters.
