The world has transformed tremendously over the past year, all credit to the raging pandemic COVID-19. Our lives took a turn, and no one knew how to cope with the debilitating disease and its repercussions. With so many losses and changes that crept into our lives suddenly, our mental health went into a tizzy. Even though we have seen alternatives come up, allowing us to live our lives virtually, the amount of despair is still high as some countries are reeling with second and third waves. In these confounding times, as we deal with our physical health, it also becomes essential to tend to our mental well-being. Today, we list a few ways through which you can cater to your mind’s health:
A flexible routine:
It might sound ironic but unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures. A routine will help you focus and create a sense of control in your life. But please ensure you manage your expectations and take cancellations and dips in productivity into account. It is better though to create work-life boundaries and take breaks while working.
Call a friend:
Humans need conversations. Once a day, make sure to call up a colleague to vent/talk about work or a friend to discuss what is going on in your lives. Virtually staying connected to close ones will help you maintain a sense of normalcy and sometimes you might find someone who is going through the same thing as you.
Intervals without news:
Information is necessary but too much news can often be upsetting, cancelling out the benefit of knowledge. With all our lives going online, we can spiral into the world of information on the internet, wasting hours and hours and ending up with sadness gained from learning about the state of the world. Thus, limit your news consumption and instead do something that brings you joy.
Nourish your body:
Practising deep breathing, exercising consistently, stretching during breaks are some methods to protect your body from stress which in turn helps your brain to maintain optimal hormone levels. A healthy diet and plenty of sleep will also aid you while you limit your alcohol intake. You could also take supplements like SAM-e from simply potent as it will help your mood, brain health and emotions.
Recently, Naomi Osaka, the famous tennis player brought mental health issues in the sports industry to the limelight by dropping out of the press conference and French open. This goes a long way in bringing in mental health awareness all over the world. Meditation apps like Calm have also become popular as people are starting to look for ways to reduce stress and anxiety. But if all else fails, each one of us should seek help actively and talk to counsellors and practitioners who are professionally trained to treat our mental health issues. One shouldn’t hesitate in asking for help especially in this zeitgeist, where mental well-being is taking priority, removing the layers of stigma previously attached to it.