Whether you’re coming into a long winter, summer or faced with the everyday “grind” of getting kids to school or work, there are always stressors.
Knowing how to reduce your stress levels is important for your mental health. A little bit of sunshine can go a long way, but it’s not the only thing you need to maintain a positive mindset.
Let’s take a look at a few practical tips you can put into place to conquer your stressors.
Get Outside as Much as Possible
There have been countless studies performed on the positive effects of sunlight and nature when it comes to the brain. Being outside can boost your mood, give you energy, and even offer a shot of serotonin, making you feel happier and more relaxed. Vitamin D consumption has also been linked with depression. Those who have Vitamin D deficiencies tend to be more likely to develop depression than those who don’t.
So, get outside as much as possible. As a bonus, find things you genuinely enjoy doing outdoors, whether it’s gardening, playing with your kids, or relaxing on the beach with a book. It’s a great way to “sneak” in some self-care while naturally boosting your mood.
Keep a Sleep Schedule
Depending on where you live, the days can seem different in summer or winter. For some people, they can seem much longer in summer since the sun goes down later in the day. In Winter, it’s the opposite. But, no matter what your days look like, it’s crucial to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
People thrive on routine. Routines are comforting and provide a sense of security and calmness. So, keep your nighttime routine as close to normal as possible. Try to go to sleep at the same time each night, and wake up at the same time every morning.
By keeping your sleep schedule intact, you’re maintaining that sense of tranquillity, and you might find you wake up feeling happier and more well-rested.
Talk to Someone
If you can feel that your mental health is struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone like a therapist or counsellor for help. Even if you reach out to someone far away, it will be beneficial. Now, thanks to the rise of telehealth, it’s easier than ever to connect with qualified mental health professionals anywhere in the world. You could be in the U.S. and work with experts in Australia like sunnysideclinic.com.au, or any therapist in the world that makes you feel seen and heard.
Create A Morning Routine
Mental health is something that a lot of people struggle with, and it can be tough to keep track of your mental health on a daily basis. It is no secret that depression is the worst in the morning; that’s why it’s important to have a morning routine that helps set the tone for the day and keeps your mental health in check. Wake up early and take some time for yourself. This could be something as simple as reading or journaling, or it could be something more active like going for a walk or doing some yoga. Taking some time for yourself in the morning can help you start the day off on the right foot and set the tone for the rest of the day.
It’s remarkable the difference such simple things can make to our lives and mental health. They allow us to escape the monotony, negativity and fast pace of our minds. But to enjoy the benefits of these simple things, it’s essential that you make yourself a priority so looking after your mental health doesn’t become the last thing on your list.
