Better Late than Never....right?

I know, I promised a blog a month ago on how to care for your mental health.   Well, life truly happens and I had to take a step back for a few moments.  But, I'm back and I'm ready to talk about how to take care of YOU!

Let's start with how we can use preventative measures to protect our mental health!

1)   Don't hate me for this one....but EXERCISE!  Yes, I said it.   Exercise is a great stress reliever and preventative for our mental wellness.

2) Oh, ya'll are really going to hate on me now.... eating whole, nutritious foods helps our mental health.   I know, that's probably the opposite of what you think (I mean, comfort foods, right?), but your mental health is very much impacted by how you fuel your body. 

3)  I've been preaching this one to you ladies for a while- affirmations.   I know they seem silly, but what we tell ourselves sticks with us for a long time.   So, let's fill our minds with positive thoughts every single day!

4)  Stop thinking you are super woman.  This is the tough one for me.  Breaks are important for everyone.   I try to schedule at least ten minutes in the morning and ten minutes in the evening to decompress.   For some of you, I know you are wondering where you will find those ten minutes.   Lock yourself in the bathroom if you need to- this one is so important!   

5)  Treat yourself!   Whether it's doing your own nails at home, getting a massage, or just picking up your favorite coffee on occasion- treating yourself is super important.   

6) If you are married or dating someone- make time for them!   Schedule a date at least once a month.   Find ten minutes each day to devote to them and them alone.  (Yes, I know kids....), but it's important.   

7) Find time for friends.   This one is just as important as making time for your spouse.   Sometimes, when our mental health suffers, we tend to pull away from everyone.  This is when we need our friends the most!    Monthly dates with your besties need to be a priority!

8)  Find a place where you are comfortable going alone and visit there when you are feeling blah.   For me- that place is my local coffee shop (Street Coffee Coffee Bar).  I visit there pretty often now, but it was my escape for a long time.   I know that I will be welcomed and find a good conversation there or just the quiet time I need!   

9)  This list is in no particular order, so know that I'm not placing this at the bottom, but prayer/meditation and Bible study are things that I find necessary to help keep my mental clarity.   So, don't skip this one!

10)  Find a hobby and make sure you are actually doing it on a regular basis!

There are so many other ways that you can care for your mental health, but these are a great starting point for you!