Caring For Your Mind
The way we think and feel about the world has a significant impact on our wellbeing. Not only does it affect our mental health, but it can also impact our physical health. Positively or negatively, how we care for our minds reaches directly to the body and the spirit. Many times, our mindset determines the level of care we put into the habits and routines that keep our body and spirit well.
In our last post, we focused on the little and big things we can do to take care of our body. In this post, we will look at ways to honor and protect the power of our minds. As with anything, we suggest starting small and finding what feels right to you. You are unique, and so is the type of care that will touch you most.
Meditation
Spending time meditating can calm your mind and worries, as well as increase feelings of peace and balance. It refocuses the mind from negative, stressful situations to calmer and happier thoughts. Meditation can come in many different forms. If you are new to meditation, know that there are many approaches, and sometimes you might need to try a few before finding the one that works best for you. There are many online resources and phone apps with guided meditations if you need some help getting started.
Mindfulness
So often we rush through life and let the tasks before us lead the way. Mindfulness asks us to step out of our rush to the next thing and be present in the here and now. It is simply being aware of the present situation and noting all five senses. By taking note of all the things you are feeling and thinking, you have a chance to process them fully.
Stress relief
The impact of stress reaches your mind, body, and spirit, so finding ways to relieve or cope with the stress of life enhances your overall wellbeing. When possible, try to limit your exposure to known stressors in your life. Since that’s not always possible, also focus on strategies to cope with stress and downshift when you find yourself in a stress cycle. That could mean getting some extra movement after a stressful day, scheduling a regular massage, talking through things with a friend, or enjoying some other form of stress relief that works for you.
Therapy
Experiences throughout our lives shape who we are and how our mind responds to things. If your healthcare coverage or financial resources allow, finding a trusted therapist can be key in understanding and working through how your past might be affecting you today.
Sleep
Sleep offers rest and restoration to our body, but it is also the time when our mind resets itself. We know it is vital to our neurons and how they communicate with each other and that it plays a role in the brain’s ability to remove toxins that build up while we are awake. Setting a schedule, having a bedtime routine, and setting the stage for a restful night’s sleep will both improve your sleep quality and care for your mind.
When it comes to caring for your mind, small steps forward in any of these areas can have a significant impact. Pick one or two to focus on to start your journey, and then after those become a part of your regular routine, add another area of focus. Some elements of caring for your mind may come naturally while others require more effort, but every little bit helps.
