6 Ways to Create Healthy Habits for Your Mental Health
Words: Amber Firriolo
At times, a lack of consistency in our lives can make us feel completely overwhelmed. Particularly in today’s fast-paced world, it’s not uncommon to feel like we’re just watching the waves of life pass us by.
When we feel like we have little control in our lives, one of the ways to create some stability is to integrate healthy habits into our routine.
Here are 6 healthy habits to put some balance into your daily practice as you ride the ups and downs of life!
Consider what you’re grateful for
When life gets overwhelming and everything seems horrible, it can benefit us to think about what we’re grateful for. Thinking up just 3 things you’re thankful for each day can help improve your relationships, optimism and reduce anxiety and depression. These gratitude lists can be anything - big or small! Even being thankful for a nice sunny day, eating a tasty donut, or someone holding a door open for you can work wonders. When we appreciate the small things in life, our larger issues become easier to handle.
Let’s get physical!
The benefits of exercise extend way beyond the physical realm. In fact, getting active helps reduce anxiety by counteracting the effects of our innate ‘fight or flight’ response. Exercise can come in all forms, from going for a walk, to surfing, to going for a quick dance break. Committing even 5 minutes a day can help you feel less stressed and happier, so put on your favourite tunes and get moving!
Get some fresh air
Going outside every day has been found to have a restorative effect on the mind. Getting some fresh air and sunshine can boost our serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter which is responsible for our happiness! Something as simple as taking a moment to sit outside every day can help improve your mood and reduce stress.
Find a hobby
It’s important for us to have hobbies that we love doing. Engaging in regular leisure activities can help us unwind from a stressful day and focus on something that we love. Sticking to hobbies can help make new friends and build relationships too! Remember, it’s never too late to learn a new skill like reading, cooking, or even surfing.
Catch some Zzzzz’s
While many underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep, our mood and our sleep schedule are closely linked. A lack of sleep creates a cycle of anxiety, agitation, depression, and even more lost sleep. For adults, making a habit of getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night can help improve your mood and memory, and lower stress.
Stay connected
Staying connected to those closest to us is crucial in reducing loneliness and stress, and keeping us happy. Simply texting or calling your friends and family daily can improve your relationships and build up a support system for when things get tough. If you’re feeling anxious about making friends, meeting people (safely!) online can be a great way to stay connected. Or you could join a WOW program and make new surfing buddies for life!
Creating consistency in our lives can help reduce the stress of our everyday lives. Incorporating habits like these can benefit your mental and physical health, and build connections with those around you too.
Remember you can’t control the waves of life, but having the right habits and support systems in place can be just the vessel you need to ride them!
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