By Charvene Maruti

Mental Health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community and themselves. This year has seen us facing a pandemic and to say the least, our mental health has been tested. We all have different coping mechanisms but if we put these practices into action, it will significantly improve our mental health.

1. Mindfulness

This is a type of meditation in which you focus on being intensely aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. This practice does not have a stop button as it is something that goes with acknowledging and accepting your feelings, whether positive or negative. When practising this, it can help ease anxiety and calm your mind as you are living your life with more awareness.

2. Journaling

For some, it will be on the notes app, others it will be on a book. Journaling is a good stress reliever and can help when feeling overwhelmed. There is no right or wrong way when it comes to scribbling down your thoughts; the practice of also writing down what you are grateful for each day will help even if it is one thing you are grateful for.

3. Social Media Break

In this day and age we are pretty much glued to our phones. Some of the pressure we put on ourselves due to comparing ourselves with others leads to depression and the feeling that you’re not where you're meant to be. It’s important to take a break from your phone. When waking up in the morning, try to avoid looking at your phone because the world’s set up for that day will define your day whether you intended to or not.

4. Workouts

A simple walk in the evening can change your mood and relax your mind when you feel like your thoughts are moving too fast to understand them. Yoga is not only beneficial for your body but also your mind. I have been practising it for three years on and off and the act of balancing makes your mind and body feel in sync. The thing with workouts is you have to start and be consistent. Sure there are days you can take a break but do not beat yourself up for it; just get back on the wheel and keep going!

5. Having a strong support system

We often find ourselves busy with our jobs and it’s hard to maintain personal relationships and connections with people. Sometimes a phone call is all one needs just to talk about what they are feeling and they need a listening ear for that to happen. Be there for your friends and families in a positive way because everyone is going through it one way or another.

Credits

Writer: Charvene Mutali

Instagram: @charvene_mutali

Email: charvenemutali@gmail.com

Images: Strikingly, Pexels

Yours in Wellness,

@TiziTalks

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