We all have different stories to tell about the previous year, but when it comes to the economy, we would all agree that it has not been that rosy with the developments and happenings. The COVID pandemic, which is still showing its ugly head, limits how far human interactions can go. There are still imposed limitations on socialising now that there is an Omicron variant of the virus is ‘on the loose’.
Inflation is on the rise. There have been predictions that it would get worse in the coming years. More than ever, we need to put out mental health in check lest we fall into the rut of everything that could possibly go wrong while we are optimistic about the new year. Here’s how to take your mental health seriously this year:
1. Most people tend to begin the new year by setting goals and mapping strategies in different areas of their lives. As you seek to take care of your mental health, approach personal growth, habit change and these goals with kinder self-talk that cares for your mental wellbeing.
2. Be intentional with life, bringing intention into your actions. While setting your goals, do not forget to ‘Write the vision, make it plain so you can run with it’. Writing is powerful and it brings a sense of clarity as you pour down your thoughts and shape the vision for your life in the new year.
3. Practice self-love, self-acceptance and self-awareness. Remember to love and accept yourself even as you make bold steps to overcome your shortcomings.
4. Pause and evaluate the relationship you have with yourself. Ask, would you speak to somebody else in the way you speak about yourself? The relationship you have with yourself is crucial to your own wellbeing and to creating healthy and happy relationships with others.
5. Be compassionate. Being kind to yourself regularly is one of the best things you can do. Invest in yourself by spending 15-30 minutes each day doing something you enjoy. Self-compassion gives us space to breathe and take the time to take care of ourselves in a healing and kind way.
6. Keep a gratitude journal. Even in the midst of uncertainty, recall and focus on positive life events. Spend time thinking about some of your best memories. Whether it’s a vacation, an award you received, or a special time spent with a friend, recalling the happiest times in your life can bring more positivity to your mindset. Take a few minutes each day to appreciate the small wins you have achieved.
7. Be mindful. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to the present moment, using techniques like meditation, breathing and yoga. Take time for yourself. Do something to wind down and relax at the end of each day.
8. Eat well. Nourish your body. There is a lot of truth to the statement ‘garbage in, garbage out’ especially regarding one’s nutrition. Cultivate the habit of mindful eating by deliberately curating one’s diet in a healthy and balanced manner. Your physical and mental health is intertwined so it is encouraged to eat and sleep well as well as engage in physical activity.
9. Be flexible. Be open to regrouping, recalibrating and changing direction as they don’t mean failure. You just know better and want better.
10. Learn to tap into your happy hormones such as dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins (D.O.S.E). This can be achieved by eating proper and adequate meals and having adequate hours of sleep (7-9hours). Also, learn to rest. Then exercise, 30-45mins for 4-5days a week. Ensure you have a healthy support group and stay connected with them.