Is there a better time in Northeast WI to talk about mental health than when we have been facing record snowfalls and
low temperatures? We think before cabin fever has you in its grips – NOW is the perfect time to share some tried and true tips to keeping the spring in your step and the smile on your face.
Enjoying mental health means having a sense of wellbeing, being able to function during everyday life and feeling confident to rise to a challenge when the opportunity arises. Mental health includes striking a balance in all aspects of your life: social, physical, spiritual, economic and mental. At times, you may tip the balance too much in one direction and have to find your footing again.
Your personal life balance will be unique to you.
In the next three issues of our newsletter, WELLBEING, we will be sharing ways to boost your mental health and maintain your life balance.
TIP #1: Receive as well as give
Many of us confuse having a realistic view of our good points with conceit. We have trouble accepting kindness from others. We often shrug off a compliment with a, “Yes, but…” and put ourselves down. Accept compliments — Next time someone compliments you, say, “Thank you! I’m glad you think so.”
TIP #2: Take care of yourself
Be active and eat well — these help maintain a healthy body. Physical and mental health are closely linked; it’s easier to feel good about life if your body feels good. You don’t have to go to the gym to exercise — gardening, vacuuming, dancing all count. Feeding your body yummy healthy foods can keep you feeling good, inside and out.
TIP #3: Challenge yourself
Learn a new skill or take on a challenge to meet a new goal. Learning improves your mental fitness, while the process builds confidence and gives you sense of progress and achievement. This formula adds up to be a boost to your emotional wellbeing as well.
TIP #4: Notice the here and now
Take a moment to notice each of your senses each day. Simply “be” in the moment — feel the sun, notice the air you are breathing. It’s easy to be caught up thinking about the past or planning for the future instead of experiencing the present. Practicing mindfulness, by focusing your attention on being in the moment, is a good way to do this. Making a conscious effort to be aware of your inner and outer world is important to your mental health.
