“Hey, how’re you?
Yeah okay thanks, you?
Yeah, all good.”
How many times have you started a conversation like this with your friends and family? Countless I can imagine. But when someone says they are okay, how do you know they really are?
A couple of months ago, I watched a documentary from Roman Kemp called “Our Silent Emergency” and that documentary, inspired me to not only ask once, but to ask twice if people are okay. It could be the most important question they are asked all day and you can be the biggest hero to them.
During the pandemic so many people have struggled in different ways, some have suffered with their own personal mental health and others have seen people they love struggle. Unfortunately, there still isn’t enough help out there for people who need it.
So, what can you do to boost and look after your own and others' mental health?
TALK ...
This can be hard to do sometimes, but it helps! Whether is a close friend, family member, someone at work, or a social media friend. talking about your feelings in the open will allow you to feel better in difficult times.
BE IN NATURE …
We have all found a new love for the natural world during covid, and being out in nature has been statistically proven to boost how people feel. Even if it’s just a stroll through your local park or going and sitting in your garden, by surrounding yourself with nature you are producing more endorphins, therefore automatically boosting your mood.
KEEP ACTIVE …
Exercise keeps your mind and body healthy. By doing some form of physical activity regularly boosts your self-esteem which in turn will boost your mood. Plus, there is no better way to give your body a bit of energy than doing a workout. It doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym, you can simply go for a walk, do a home workout or go for a bike ride. Any form of exercise is guaranteed to make your mind and body feel a little better.
EAT AND DRINK WELL …
A diet that is good for your physical health is also very good for your mental health. Drink plenty of water and eat lots of fruit and vegetables. A balanced diet is one of the easiest ways to increase the energy in your body. So if you’re not feeling great, rather than grabbing some chocolate or crisps to snack on, why not try some carrot/cucumber and hummus?
DO SOMETHING YOU LOVE …
As humans we are always going full speed, we go to work, see friends and family, go to the gym, and look after our kids, there is always something to do! So, we don’t always take the time to stop and actually look after ourselves.
Try and take a break, even if it’s just for half an hour once or twice a week, do something for you. This may be a long relaxing bath, a walk with some music, or sitting to watch some TV.
Whatever it is, take a break from ‘life’ and do something for you!
Jemma Lane
@jemms.adventures
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