Mental health can often be a taboo topic of conversation, but it shouldn’t be. Taking care of your mental wellbeing is equally important to doing so for your physical health, and it doesn’t have to be all that complicated. Going to therapy is great, but there are other easy ways to support your mental health and maintain a positive mindset long-term.
From getting outside for some physical activity to practicing regular self-care, keep reading for five easy ways to support your mental health.
Get Outside
Whenever I’m feeling anxious or find myself in a slump, nothing recharges me more than spending some time outdoors. There’s something so healing about nature and fresh air! Lately, I’ve been going for rides around my neighborhood on my bike from Brilliant Bicycle Co., and it’s been such a relaxing way to support both my physical and mental health. All Brilliant bikes feature a Gates Carbon Drive Belt versus traditional metal, making it stronger, cleaner, and more reliable for all your rides. Want to get one for yourself? Use code CHLOE100 for $100 off any Brilliant bike (code valid until 3/15/21).
Do Something Creative
Dance, paint, write, play an instrument – do whatever gets your creative juices flowing! Embracing your creativity and making something beautiful out of it is an amazing way to connect with and express yourself, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. And no, you don’t need to be an experienced artist to be creative. Just start small and pick up a creative hobby that piques your interest. For me, it’s writing poetry in my journal – I even made a separate poetry Instagram account (@wordsxchloe) as an outlet to share what I come up with.
Cook a Healthy Meal
As tempting as it is to stress eat on unhealthy junk food, a healthy meal full of veggies and nutrients is a surefire way to boost your mood. At least for me, I always feel worse – sluggish, unmotivated, bloated – the day after overindulging in comfort food. So whether you order it from a food subscription service or cook up all the ingredients yourself, maintaining an overall healthy selection of food is an easy way to support your mental health.
Listen to a Mindfulness Podcast
Whether you’re on your morning commute to work or winding down before bed, listening to a mindfulness or meditation podcast is an easy way to be present and supportive of your current mental state. Many podcasts will offer tips and practices for maintaining a healthy mindset, which offers a relaxing yet productive form of entertainment. My favorite meditation and mindfulness podcast is Tara Brach. She provides a plethora of free meditations and sermons that seriously put my mind right at ease.
Go for a Drive
Sometimes, doing something as mundane as driving, cleaning, or taking a shower is all you need to relax. I love going for long drives around town because it gives me the opportunity to just be with myself and think. Of course, I especially love sunset drives by the beach!
When it comes to supporting your mental health, find whatever best works for you. If you’re not sure where to start, use the tips above and let me know how they work for you in the comments!
Xo, Chloe