The importance we should place on our mental health is so huge. It affects every element of our day, from our mood to our productivity at work and the strength of our relationships.
Unfortunately, given the current climate, where finances are tight, we’re in the midst of conflict in various parts of the world, and the likes of addiction are increasing, more and more of us are beginning to struggle with the likes of anxiety and depression.
For those that are really struggling, it is important to seek help. Counselling and therapy can play a huge part in that, with facilities such as UKAT London, a mental health clinic London based offering a wealth of services to help people better manage their mental health.
However, everyone should partake in activities that look after their mental well-being and there are plenty of activities you can take up on your own to clear the mind and be as stress-free as possible…
Mindfulness Meditation
One practice that’s encouraged by a wealth of professionals in the likes of mental health clinics, rehab centres and beyond is meditation. Taking the time to yourself to just sit in quiet contemplation can be a great way to observe your thoughts and promote a sense of calm.
It delivers presence in the moment with focused breathing, exercises and body scan techniques helping reduce stress, anxiety and rumination. Over time, meditation can become an instrumental part of routine and bring greater sense of well-being across your life.
Journaling
Journaling is becoming an increasingly prominent method of maintaining our mental health, and is a great way to get your thoughts down in a private and introspective way.
What keeping a journal does is that it allows you to explore your inner world and gain insights into your thoughts and feelings, as well as track patterns of behaviour over time. It can promote self awarenes, identify trigger points of stress and really get a handle on your mental health. Alongside this, getting things down on paper can also be the same sense of release that speaking to a friend can also have.
Creative Expression
Art therapy has proven to be an incredibly effective method of stress release and is often encouraged by counsellors. However, even just being creative on a day-to-day basis can help. It allows you to tap into your imagination and intuition and is a form of self-expression that can be deeply rewarding.
By its very nature, crafting and producing artwork can be a relaxing experience, but it also works as an outlet for processing emotions and getting a much better understanding of where your well-being is at currently.
Nature Walks
We all know that getting out in the fresh air and amongst nature has a range of health benefits, both physically and mentally. Taking solitary walks can be hugely valuable in escaping the stresses of day-to-day life.
It may be that you take a walk at lunchtime to reset after a busy morning, or even first thing to set you up for the day and last thing to decompress.
To really enhance the experience, slow down your stroll, sit and observe the sights and sounds of nature. It will make you much more mindful and appreciate the peace and quiet, which can really help you reset and recharge.
Reading
Similarly, reading offers another form of escape that can really stimulate your brain. It can expand your horizons and let your imagination run free. It doesn’t matter what type of reading you enjoy, fiction or non-fiction, or what the subject matter, this temporary escape is ideal for enjoying on your own.
You can enjoy this activity whenever, wherever, from the quiet corner of a living room to on the train at rush hour, providing a welcome distraction from stress and worry, and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
