We can all agree that 2020 was a HARD year. While we may be physically safe now, our mental health remains a concern because of all the marks this pandemic has left on our lives.
Now, as we slowly start to come out of our shell and move back into our everyday lifestyle, here are a few helpful tips for mental health balance in our post-covid lives.
1. Validate your experience
If you have been feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed by emotions lately, understand that it is something completely normal and natural that happens to people under stressful circumstances. You can process your feelings by talking out whatever has been bothering you with close people or even a therapist, as it helps you vent and validates your experience.
2. Laughter
Laughing is an excellent antidote for stress. Have a good time by participating in things just for the fun of them. Try watching your favorite shows, hanging out with friends, or even going to a standup comedy event.
3. Constructive action
Start translating your ideas for feeling better into reality by taking constructive action. This could include planning hangouts or visits with your old friends, intentionally going out for a walk because it feels better or finally start working on hobbies you’ve been putting off for too long.
4. Breathing work and yoga
There is an uncanny connection between our body and soul. Exercising not only helps our body but can significantly influence the state of our mind as well. A daily walk is a break from screens. Connecting to nature is actually good for the body and the brain! Try breathing work, enrolling in yoga classes or simply exercising each day to maintain a balanced state of mind.
5. Clarify goals
When the pandemic started, we did not know how to approach it, but we can be proactive now as it ends. Start clarifying the things that matter and how you can make plans to achieve those goals from now on. Coaching in this area can be quite helpful 😉
6. Try stepping out of your comfort zone
We often miss out on big things just because we start to believe in the imaginary limits we put on ourselves. Try becoming aware of and breaking these limits and start trying out new and exciting things again. It could be as simple as going out to eat, trying a new hobby, saying yes to something that you normally avoid, working on yourself by attending therapy and doing some “self work”.
7. Try mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation can be a single hobby that can have a massive impact on your overall mental wellbeing. Try taking out 10 to 20 minutes each day to engage in meditation practices, allowing you to not only release stress but build a more resilient mind in the long run. Here are the 7 Best Apps from Verywise. https://www.verywellmind.com/best-meditation-apps-4767322
Need to Talk with Someone?
If you are looking for more mental clarity using a counseling environment, give me a call. I do online, phone and in person meetings.
Thanks for reading 7 Tips for Mental Health Balance Post Covid !
Steve Brand