As we near International Self-Care Day on July 24th, it’s worth remembering that self-care
isn’t just about the body, but it’s about the brain and mind too. In fact, mental self-care is as important as physical self-care.
Mental Health Self-Care
When people think self-care they often think of exercising, quitting smoking, taking care of their bodies in some way or maybe even getting a manicure-pedicure. And there is nothing wrong with these aspects of self-care, but it’s important to remember to include mental self-care as part of the package as well. According to the Center for Addiction and Mental Health, in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental health or addiction problem. And while some causes of mental illness are unavoidable, (such as genetic causes) it’s clear most of us can still do more to improve our own mental wellness and mental self-care is a great way to encourage that.
What Can You Do for Mental Self-Care?
Just like physical self-care is about what is supportive of your own physical health, mental health self-care is about what is supportive of your mental health. This may simply mean taking a few minutes every day of peace and quiet, just for yourself. Setting aside even just five minutes to close your eyes and breathe deeply into your belly can restore calm and wellness during a busy, hectic day.
Other things you can do on a regular basis for mental self-care include:
– Eating a well-balanced diet that includes foods that are known to be good for your brain such as those that contain omega-3s like fatty fish, nuts and seeds. Also ask your doctor about any supplements you may need to add to your diet to support brain health.
– Learning to be mindful and live in the moment. Try to take time to appreciate where you are without worrying about past or future. When you’re mindful, here and now is all there is.
– Learn about meditation or yoga and set aside time each day to practice. Meditation or yoga can help ease stress and worries and help bring peace into a busy life.
– Learn about mental illness and mental health so you can better understand this important subject matter that affects everyone. The Mayo Clinic website is a great place to start.
– If you’re experiencing emotional distress, considering seeing a psychologist. They can help you through problems you may not be able to see your own way out of.-
– If you feel you may have a mental illness such as depression or an anxiety disorder, see adoctor such as a psychiatrist right away for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations, if needed.
While some people may be overwhelmed at all the things they could do for self-care, both physical and mental, what matters is taking small steps, every day, to improve your overall health, not wearing yourself out trying to work every self-care technique into your routine. Pick and choose what works for you and, little by little, you will notice a change.
“This article was written by award-winning mental health writer and speaker, Natasha Tracy.”
http://natashatracy.com
