2020 brought us an unprecedented time. With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, people around the world have experienced an increase in fear, anxiety, depression, and loneliness due to quarantine restrictions. It is important to know, and remember, that these are normal human responses to crisis — you are not alone. Keep reading to learn about healthy ways to care for your mental health.
Exercise Regularly
A variety of exercise routines can have positive effects on your mental health. Low-impact exercises such as yoga, walking, or biking on a regular basis can help you better regulate your mood and have a positive impact on lowering your stress levels. Establishing a routine is more important than how long you exercise.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a form of meditation in which you strive to live in the present moment. Similar to exercise, practicing mindfulness is most effective at lowering the level of stress hormones when there is a routine. Many people choose to practice 3-5 minutes of mindfulness first thing in the morning to get their day started on a positive note.
Find Ways To Do What You Love
Just because life looks a little different these days doesn’t mean you can’t find creative ways to enjoy your favorite activities. Host a virtual movie night, cook your favorite meal, take your dog to the park, or reading a book are all safe activities that can positively impact your mental health. If you leave your house, make sure you have a mask with you and avoid standing closer than 6 feet from people you do not live with. While managing and coping with your emotions through mindfulness, exercise, and activities you enjoy may be a good place to start, working with a counselor will help you build skills to cope with emotions while working towards your goal of achieving personal wellness. At Connection Wellness Group we offer a variety of services to help you manage your mental health. If you are not comfortable seeing one of our therapists in person, we offer Telehealth Services where you will receive the compassionate care you deserve from the safety of your own home.