10/11/2021
It is World Mental Health Day and I feel that it is such an important topic to address. Especially after this past year and a half.
During this pandemic, we have seen an increase in depression, anxiety and many other mental health “issues”.
I found myself struggling with emotions I don’t normally experience. And I know I was not alone.
I talk about the importance of having a toolbox, things you know help when you’re feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, etc.. For me, exercise will always be at the top of that list. But let’s talk about some other tools I like to suggest:
📖 Journaling:
Journaling does not need to be perfect writing in a beautiful notebook. For some, this is certainly desirable; but for others, drawing, painting, scribbling, simply writing words can be very therapeutic! Just write. You can tear it up, keep it for later reading, do as you desire. But just give it a try!
🙏 Guided meditation:
I cannot lie, I have been teaching guided meditation for years, but I still struggle to find the silence personally. I like using guided mediation to help keep me on track. Focusing on the breath and the words can be relaxing and help ease the mind.
🧘♂️ Gentle yoga:
A simple child’s pose or legs up the wall can be extremely relaxing for the body and help ease tension. When used with deep breathing exercises, it can help calm the nervous system.
👃 Box breathing:
This can be beneficial when experiencing anxiety as it gives you something to focus on. Inhale for a slow count of 4, hold for a count of 4, exhale for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4. It is preferable to inhale through the nose (I like to say “at the top of your nose, between your eyes) and exhale through the nose or the mouth, whichever feels most comfortable to you.
Finally, PLEASE never ever be afraid to reach out for help! See a counselor. It is so amazing to have a 3rd party who knows nothing about you hear you speak and see a different side of the story. If the first one or two don’t work out, try a third.
There is nothing wrong with seeking help! ❤️🙏❤️🙏