Are you still refining your pandemic-friendly routine? Here are some attainable ways to maintain mental health as you continue developing your day-to-day.
1. Start small
Have you ever read an article claiming mental health is easy if you simply follow 35+ steps (i.e. meditate, journal, exercise, drink green tea, create a mantra, call a friend, and organize your closet) all before 9am? While we’re all for wellness becoming more mainstream, it can be tempting to feel like you have to do X amount of things in order to feel good. But in practice, that approach can be overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead, try starting small. Perhaps identify one or two actionable things that you’re excited to start with, and slowly add more from there!
2. Don’t separate the physical from the mental
It’s a common belief that body and mind are two separate silos of wellness. But in reality, your physical and mental health are deeply connected. The evidence shows that physical activity is majorly beneficial for your mental state and essential for sufficient energy to go about your day. So what does that look like for you? Is it breaking midday to do some YouTube yoga? How about hydrating before you drink that second cup of joe? Can you download an app to help with your routine? We know COVID can make things limiting when it comes to our fitness options, so don’t be afraid to get creative -- yes, we’re hinting at a mid-afternoon dance break!
3. Get outside
Do you plug in at 9am only to realize 6 hours have gone by and you still haven’t been outside? We get it. This one can be the easiest to forget as most of us continue our WFH routines indoors. But breaking to get outdoors can help you feel calmer, happier, and more productive. And just because the weather is changing doesn’t mean we can’t still benefit from nature’s medicine - even 5 minutes in nature is helpful! This week, try actually planning your outdoor time at the beginning of the day -- where can you block 5-10 minutes off of your calendar to feel the elements?
4. Incorporate mindfulness without changing your routine
Yes, you read that correctly! We’re suggesting bringing mindfulness into what you’re already doing. With a little observation and awareness, you can turn mundane activities into mindfulness practices. Take washing the dishes, a task most of us don’t look forward to. Next time you turn the water on, take a deep breath and notice every sensation - the temperature of the water, how the soap feels on your skin, the smell, etc. How do you feel after? If you find that helpful, perhaps bring mindfulness into something else (we love a good mindful meal!)
5. Seek help if you need it
If you’re struggling with your mental health right now, know that you don’t have to deal with it on your own. 53% of Americans have reported that their mental health has been impacted due to COVID-19. As we learn more about the pandemic, more resources have become available to help guide you during this time. And remember, you are not alone.
Contact us to see how Givhero can help with your wellness journey today.
Written By
Hanna Berman is a Mental Health & Wellness Contributor for Givhero. As a Mental Health & Organizational Consultant, her career is dedicated to exploring behavior change on both an individual and collective level. She holds a Masters from King’s College London in Global Ethics & Human Values and is a part-time Reiki practitioner with City Acupuncture Clinic in Washington DC.
