Mental Health and Self Care Tips

Recently, I learned that May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

It could not come at a better time, because so many educators, students, and families are wrapping up the school year. Schedules get full, energy runs low, and it is easy to put everyone else first. So today, I want to gently remind you to check in with yourself. Your mental health matters, and you deserve support, too.

If no one has told you lately, caring for yourself is not selfish. It is necessary. Here are some of the practices that have helped me feel more grounded and steady during busy seasons of life.

SELF-CARE THAT SUPPORTS YOUR MIND AND BODY

When I think about mental health, I think about preventing that overwhelmed, “I cannot catch up” feeling. These small habits help me feel more capable, calmer, and more in control of my day.

IDEAS THAT MAY HELP YOU TOO

• Exercise. Even 30 minutes can make a difference. A group fitness class, a walk outside, or simply stretching can help release stress and boost your mood. Endorphins are a gift, and movement is one of the fastest ways to tap into them.
• Journaling. Getting thoughts out of your head and onto paper (or into an app) is incredibly grounding. I like to write my to-do list the night before so I can start the day with clarity instead of chaos.
• Massage. I used to consider this a luxury, but truly, it is restorative. I even pre-pay for my monthly appointment, so I am less likely to cancel. If you are like me, sometimes we need to trick ourselves into making rest a priority.
• Yoga. Tight muscles, stress, and early-morning soreness led me to try yoga, and it has become a weekly ritual. I use a mix of apps, YouTube videos, and a local Holy Yoga class. It has helped me slow down, breathe deeper, and release tension I did not even know I was carrying.

SELF CARE IS NOT ONE SIZE FITS ALL

These practices have helped me, but everyone's mental health journey looks different. Some need stillness. Some need movement. Some need connection. Some need quiet. The beauty is in finding what supports you best.

And if you want a simple way to start building healthier habits, I created a gentle, encouraging resource just for you. It is completely free and meant to help you step into wellness without overwhelm.

Download my FREE 7 Daily Healthy Habits eBook to explore small steps that support your mind, body, and energy every single day.

LET'S KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING

I would love to hear what helps you stay grounded and supported. What self-care practices do you turn to when life gets hectic? Share your thoughts below so we can learn from each other. We are all figuring this out together, and your ideas might be exactly what someone else needs today.