As a society, we are just beginning to have candid conversations about mental health and how important a healthy mind is. More than ever before, now is the time to take advantage of the resources the world has to offer to gain control of your mental health.
If you have ever struggled with anxiety, depression, or any other mental ailments, you are not alone. Fortunately, there are numerous things you can try to naturally soothe some of the issues you are facing internally.
Here are some of the most common things that you can try to improve your mental health:
1. Therapy
Going to therapy is still seen by many as a sign of weakness. The truth is, opening up about your struggles will prove just how strong you are.
In recent years, the negative stigma surrounding therapy has decreased and it has become much easier to find a therapy that’s suited to your specific struggle.
There should be no shame in seeking help, and therapy can be incredibly beneficial to you! Talking about your battles to a trained professional and unbiased third-party can help you to relieve some of the pent up stress in your system, which will help you work towards a healthier mental state.
2. Yoga and meditation
Yoga and meditation have also become incredibly popular in recent years; and for good reason.
Both of these practices require you to ‘take a time out’ from real life and empty your mind of all the stress and craze that may be weighing you down.
These exercises will clear the mind and cleanse the soul. They can show tremendous improvements in mental health if practised regularly.
Different types of yoga and meditation can be used to combat different forms of stress. Transcendental meditation, for example, is one of these methods that can greatly soothe the mind and has been practised for many years. It’s ideal for creative thinkers and anyone that likes to brainstorm.
You can learn how to do transcendental meditation by Unify Cosmos to reap the rewards of this incredible form of exercise. Once you start, it might become your new favourite weekly activity.
3. Fresh air
Going outdoors and taking in the fresh air is always a great thing for the mind. Fresh air will help you relax and find solace in some of your inner struggles.
If you are able to, take a walk into nature or just sit outside and let the great outdoors work its magic.
4. Cardio
Another great way to release stress and work towards a healthier mind is to exercise. Any form of exercise is beneficial, but cardio is the best outlet for those looking to naturally reduce any mental strain.
Running, for example, releases endorphins into the bloodstream, ultimately resulting in the ‘runners high’ that so many speak of. This leaves you feeling elated and naturally diminishes any of the stress you may be feeling.
If you can, take some time out of every week to work out and you will quickly see how beneficial it is to your mind (and your body).
5. Open communication
One of the worst things you can do when trying to better your mental health is to keep all of your issues pent up in your mind. In order to free the mind of your worries, you must find a healthy way to release them.
Communicating with a trusted family member, friend, or trained professional can greatly help you to overcome some of the stress you may be facing. It will feel incredible to lift some of the weight that you have been carrying, and you will likely have someone to help you through.
Alicia Saville did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.
