Editor
25-Mar-2020
No more out of time. Let’s make the best of our quarantine by the process of self-reflection, acceptance, and healing our mental selves.
We’re borne out of the hustle culture. We’re so obsessed with “performative workaholism” that we’ve almost made it our lifestyle, our personality trait. Juggling too many tasks and playing several roles at once can be hard. However, you need to know where to draw the line.
Surprisingly, most of us are making the use of this time to self-reflect and heal, and here we have jotted 7 steps you can manifest by the end of the quarantine for a better, improved mental health.
1.) LIMIT THE TIME SPENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
Studies have linked the use of social media to depression, anxiety and poor self-esteem. Individuals spend hours looking up to someone else’s life without knowing their daily struggles. This often leads to unhealthy comparisons and negative thoughts. It also increases the feeling of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) which makes one feel lonely and unhappy. To improve mental wellness, it is important to spend less time on social media and practice a lifestyle that encourages digital detox.
2.) INVEST TIME IN RELATIONSHIPS
The key to being happy is to spend quality time with friends and family. If there is something bothering you, vent out to a loved one. This will make you feel better rather than bottling up feelings inside. When you know that others value you, you tend to think more positively thus letting go of negative feelings.
3.) INCORPORATE A DAILY 30-MINUTE EXERCISE ROUTINE
To keep daily stress-causing factors at bay, prioritize exercise. Exercising regularly keeps you physically strong. When your body releases feel-good endorphins, you feel more charged and motivated to take on the day. A 30-minute morning walk, a tranquilizing yoga session, an intense Zumba class or HIIT training will do your mind and body good.
4.) MAINTAIN A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
The secret to improving your wellbeing is by making a note of things you are grateful for. A simple way to start is by maintaining a gratitude journal. On a daily basis, if there is something that makes you happy, make a note of it. Doing this not only improves self-esteem but also increases positivity and helps you sleep better at night.
5.) LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE
Laugh often and have fun wherever you can. Talk to people with a good sense of humour or watch a comedy whenever you feel like you are in a difficult situation. Laughter counteracts feelings of stress and anxiety.
6.) PRACTICE KINDNESS
Another way to improve mental wellness is by finding your true purpose in life. Start by small acts of kindness. Do things for people around you. Whether it’s helping a family member with a project or volunteering in your local community for a charity event, doing something for someone else can make you feel more satisfied with life.
7.) CULTIVATE MINDFULNESS
Begin each day in quiet reflection. Connect with the emotions and various sensations of your body. The key to cultivate mindfulness is to be aware of everything around you, enjoy little moments and keeping a check on negative patterns or habits before they become problematic.
It’s easier said than done, but we believe a little effort goes a long way. Remember: it takes 21 days to form a habit. You can start today, right now.
Disclaimer: This article is authored by Karishma V Mangal - Director and Trustee Thakur International School Cambridge. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not represent those of GlobalSpa.
Picture Credits: reshot.com