Mental Health and Self Care Tips

Recently, I’ve learned that May is Mental Health Awareness month. It seems fitting since so many educators and families are finishing up the school year.  So in preparation for this, I thought I’d share a little bit about how you can support your mental health!  I mean, who couldn’t use a little support in that area?  

SELF CARE

Usually, when we think of Mental health, we think of self-care.  For me, it’s thinking of ways I can prevent that helpless feeling of being “out of control.” Here are a few things that have helped me:

IDEAS

• Exercise. Exercising at least 30 minutes a day. This could be a group fitness class or even just going outside for a walk (when it’s not raining...it is April after all.)  

• Journaling. I’ve also tried Journaling all my thoughts before they swirl around in my head all morning. I’ve realized I need to have a to-do list written out the night before each day. Then I can stay on track and not worry about forgetting things. (There are great apps for this and then you’ll always have it with you because it’s on your phone!)  
• Massage. I also have decided this time of year I need to go ahead and schedule a monthly massage. I know that I’ll err on the side of saving money when it comes to this kind of luxury, but it’s so important.  So, I kinda trick myself...I pay a month ahead for my massages.  I’ve already paid for it, so I better go ahead and keep that appointment. Are you with me?
• Yoga. I just started doing this practice.  I started it because I would wake up with my muscles feeling so tight and sore. I found an app to use, but I also was told about a few youtube videos that I follow. There’s also a great group of ladies that get together once a week near me to do Holy Yoga. You’ll find me there most Saturday mornings (until Baseball picks up!)  

LET'S KEEP TALKING

Well, those are just a few of the mental health tips I’ve used to stay on top of things.  There are lots of other ways to increase your mental stability and I’d love to keep the conversation going. Be sure to check out my FREE 7 Daily Healthy Habits eBook  

What works best for you? I’d love to hear your additions to this list. Comment below and we can keep learning from each other!