Five things you can do at home to help ease mental stress

The secret’s out, the world is a stressful place. However, if you can embrace of these simple ideas, it won’t overwhelm you.

To start, treat yourself with kindness and respect and avoid self-criticism. Make time for hobbies and your favorite projects to engage the creative parts of your mind and help broaden your horizons. Try a daily crossword puzzle, plant a garden, learn to play an instrument or learn a new language.

Next, remember to take care of yourself physically to help maintain and even improve your mental health. Be sure to:

• Eat healthy, nutritious meals
• Avoid smoking
• Drink plenty of water
• Exercise
• Get enough sleep
  
  

1. Surround yourself with good people

People with strong family or social connections know the benefits of a solid personal support network. Make plans – even virtually – with supportive family members and friends or seek out new activities where you can safely meet people, like a club, class or support group, many which can be found safely online.

2. Learn to deal with stress

Practice good coping skills like deep-breathing techniques, a Tai Chi class, try an assisted stretch, take a nature walk, play with a pet or try journal writing. All are great stress reducers. Also, though it can be a challenge at times – remember to smile and see the humor in life. Laughter may help you cope with minor aches and pains, relax your body and overall help reduce stress.

3. Quiet your mind

Meditation, mindfulness and/or prayer are all well-practiced methods that can help corral your thoughts. Quiet introspection, stretching, relaxation exercises, meditation and prayer can improve your state of mind and outlook on life. In fact, research shows that meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of your self care.

4. Try a new routine

Routines commonly make us all more efficient and can enhance feelings of security and safety. A little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. Consider a new online workout, take a walk around the neighborhood, hang some new pictures or try cooking a new dish. Maybe try a new enhancement during your next massage session.|

5. Get help if or when you need it

Seeking help is a sign of strength not a weakness. It is important to remember that getting treatment is an effective way to address mood, depression and anxiety. Getting proper care can help you recover from or make great with mental illness and help put you on track to leading a full, rewarding life.

Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to consume you. You have influence over your wellness, your self-care and you have agency over your state of happiness and mental wellbeing. And it all starts with the right mindset.