As we move from winter into spring, taking care of your mental health is crucial. We’ve seen more attention and publicity given to mental health issues, from Simone Biles putting herself first at the Olympics to celebrities talking more openly about their struggles.
What steps can you take to protect and nurture your mental health now, as the weather changes to warmer temperatures and more hours of sunshine? Many people find that the transition to summer is a more hopeful time, and finding ways to take advantage of these opportunities is a great way to prioritize yourself.
Here are some ways to strengthen your mental health this spring.
Get More Sunshine
Spring can be unpredictable, with great weather one day and then three days of rain. However, taking advantage of the days you have beautiful weather is essential as you improve your mental health.
Sun increases your serotonin and Vitamin D, both of which are vital. You only need about 10-15 minutes of sun a few days a week, so if there’s a nice day in the forecast, make a plan to be outside for part of it!
Frequent sunshine does more than boost your mood. It can help reset your sleep cycle so you can get better rest at night. Finally, sunlight releases chemicals in your body that can lower your blood pressure and reduce your health risks.
Create a Strong Financial Plan
More than 75% of Americans report anxiety over their financial situation, so one great way to protect your mental health is to create a solid financial plan.
If you have debt, create a strategy to get it paid down. Consider ways to set aside money in a savings account so you don’t have to worry about sudden emergencies. Lower your bills by contacting a reputable company to compare rates on different plans. Always check a company’s ratings before contracting a service with them – peace of mind comes when your monthly bills come with stress-free results. Freeway Insurance reviews are consistently high so you can safely get a free and fast quote on your insurance needs with them.
When you feel like you’re in control of your finances, you’ll have a lot less stress and anxiety, which helps improve your mental health remarkably.
Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
So much about our mental health relies on how we think about ourselves and the world, so changing your perspective can bring a significant improvement.
Mindfulness helps you quiet your thoughts and relieve anxiety. You’ll be able to focus on being present in the moment instead of on what might happen in the future or what you regret from the past. You can practice mindfulness in just five minutes a day, so it’s an easy practice to fit into your routine.
Gratitude is another way to shift your mindset. Studies have shown that being aware of what you’re grateful for increases positive thoughts, helps you feel happier, and improves your relationships. It just takes a few minutes to write down three things you’re grateful for every day.
Your Mental Health Matters
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t have to take hours or cost thousands of dollars. With just a few minutes a day of mindfulness, increased sun, or reviewing your budget, you can reduce anxiety and improve your mental health.
You matter! Get started on these steps today.
