Build Your Mental Health Toolkit
OCT 02, 2024Think of a mental health toolkit as a collection of strategies you can access whenever you need them. It’s about equipping yourself to handle challenges in a healthy way.
Read MoreRecently a friend and I challenged each other to bring more wellness and joy into our daily routines. We are calling it “No Bad Vibes November.” I’m challenging you to do the same! You will be surprised how little joys during the day can boost mood, overall wellness and productivity. Here are some ways that I recommend practicing this concept if you want to give it a try.
First thing, we have to stop letting the weather be an excuse for not exercising. Look for opportunities instead of always seeing barriers. Explore your home for things that can be equipment: stairs for cardio, detergent bottles for hand weights or the kitchen table for push-ups. Take it up a notch with these ideas:
Working from home? Use half of your lunch break for a quick circuit workout. Take breaks if you get them. Try to get outside, create a standing workstation and move around any chance you get. Experts note just 10 minutes of exercise can improve heart health, blood sugar levels and mental focus.
No bad vibes relates to food too! No food shaming - after all, we are entering the holidays with delicious, comforting foods. Enjoy ALL foods – mindfully and in small portions. And please – don’t skip meals to “save up” your calories. This will set you up to overeat, feel poorly and likely zap your energy. Seasonal eating tips include:
Finally, calm your mind and bring yourself good vibes! Bump up your self-care during this extra busy season.
Take the pressure off yourself a bit. After all, the sink of dishes will still be there tomorrow. Feel called to give to others? Write letters to a nursing home, find ways to volunteer or donate to a local food pantry.
When life gets busy and we find ourselves getting off the tracks, find support from a friend and try to focus on the positive. Look for opportunities, not barriers, and we can all try to have a positive season this year!
Think of a mental health toolkit as a collection of strategies you can access whenever you need them. It’s about equipping yourself to handle challenges in a healthy way.
Read MoreEating a good meal before trick or treating, planning a costume party, and keeping an eye on candy consumption are just a few tricks for a healthier Halloween.
Read MoreIf your goal is either weight maintenance or weight loss, portion control can be a valuable tool to help you eat healthy.
Read MoreWhen you need local health information from a trusted source, turn to the CHI Health Better You eNewsletter.