Unless you've experienced it, very few people truly know what it's like to recover from a really dark period of mental health challenges. Because depression and anxiety are commonly talked about, there might be a few misunderstandings regarding how challenging it can be to maintain mental wellness.

If you've experienced a period of depression or other challenges within your body and mind, you understand the fact that it's not a desirable experience. If you ever find yourself in that space again (or you're currently there), consider the following tips as a guide to feel better in your body and mind.

1. Prioritize Rest

In a world where business gets glorified and hustle culture reigns supreme, rest is revolutionary. Instead of burning the candle at both ends, learn how to include at least seven hours of sleep each night. Avoid burnout by setting boundaries, prioritizing sabbaticals and taking naps.

2. Properly Fuel Yourself

A lot of health issues are directly connected to inflammation within the body. When you're experiencing inflammation, you're creating a breeding ground for chronic illnesses to thrive. Instead, cultivate an anti-inflammatory diet. Work on drinking lots of water each day. Decrease your intake of caffeine, sugar and salt. Maintain a food journal in order to discover which foods really help you thrive, feel satiated and energetic. When it comes to healing your mind and your body, don't underestimate the impact of optimal nutrition.

3. Seek Professional Assistance

While it's essential to "know your normal" as it relates to your body, feelings and emotions, there are times when you'll need extra care and assistance. Whether you're experiencing discomfort in your arm or your mind, seek out professional assistance. Your local primary care practitioner serves as a guide to help you uncover issues you're feeling within your body. You can find excellent online psychiatry that can help you uncover mental health concerns and how to cope. Sometimes, willpower isn't enough to get through a mental hurdle. There's nothing wrong with getting therapy or taking medication.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Though it's very important to wear lots of sunscreen to protect the skin, a dose of Vitamin D can do wonders for the mind and body. Whether you go for an early morning walk to refresh your soul or take a seat on a park bench to read a book, find ways to get outside to enjoy nature. Grounding became a really popular practice in 2020 as people looked for ways to get outside. Whether you engage in grounding exercises or you enjoy tending to your garden, cultivate reasons to get outside each day.

5. Learn Self-Regulation Exercises

Throughout the course of any given day, you'll experience some challenges. As your emotions fluctuate, it's still important to know how to regulate your emotions and center yourself. Most self-regulating exercises can be done within the comfort of your chair. If you're sitting in the car and feel stressed out by the traffic, try alternate nostril breathing. If you're feeling anxious, give yourself a chance to do a few stretches. Give yourself a tight hug, or incorporate meditation into your daily routine. You can't guarantee that each day will be perfect. However, you can perfectly guide yourself through the challenges with grace and compassion.

6. Decrease Your Screen Time

Though you might be tempted to save those last few TikTok videos, there are so many research studies pointing to the damaging effects of social media on the brain. When it's used in small increments, it can be a great tool for connecting with others and business partnerships. When you use it without any parameters or boundaries, it can lead to major feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression. Keep your smartphone out of your bedroom. Pick up a book or an interesting hobby that can occupy your time.

Conclusion

Don't wait until your home is a disaster and you're skipping showers before you recognize a decline in your mental health. Become intentional about incorporating these tips into your everyday lifestyle. Find ways to make these tips habitual. Don't rely on sheer willpower in order to make them happen. Instead, find ways to naturally incorporate these tips into your schedule by setting up systems and routines. If getting outside isn't a part of your regular routine, set up a chair and drink your morning coffee outside. Get out of the house by running an errand that you'll look forward to doing. As you become more intentional and creative about supporting your body and mind, you'll feel the difference in your ability to survive and thrive.

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