One in four people in the world suffers from some mental health illness at some point in their life and women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with it than men. It is estimated that 970 million suffer from mental illness worldwide. Our mental health affects how we feel, think and act. It is our emotional, psychological and social well being and it is important at every stage of life.
We need to make our mental health our priority and normalize the conversation around it. By practicing holistic wellness you can help enhance your mental health by enabling us to live with more joy and health.
Prakriti Poddar, a dedicated mental health advocate and Global Head, Mental Health & Wellbeing at Roundglass, a holistic wellbeing company, often says that “it’s okay not to be okay”. We don’t need to hide our mental health challenges, but we should be open about them and learn to navigate them by living a life of complete well-being. Developing a daily practice of meditation and mindfulness is one of the most trusted paths to achieving overall wellness, but it is not the only one.
Here are many more exercises that will enable us to open our minds and empower them with positive thoughts, purpose, and well-being:
Thankfulness: Accepting and appreciating the gifts we receive, and counting our blessings is a powerful positive emotion that enhances well-being. In a series of studies, Robert Emmons – a leading scientific expert on gratitude – found that people who practice gratitude experience many benefits, including a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, and higher levels of positive emotions. Don’t hold back – let your gratitude flow through your words, actions, and expressions.
self pitty: It pays to be kind to our own mind and body. Sometimes, it’s surprising how unkind and harsh we can be to ourselves while treating complete strangers with more kindness! Now research has shown how being kind to yourself is associated with greater optimism and happiness. Don’t hesitate to express your feelings and wellbeing needs. If you think you need help, ask for it. Choose from all the secure digital tools and portals available today that provide reliable wellbeing care and support.
motionPhysical exercise and meditation can both help you experience better health and happiness. Meditation movements are a category of exercise that focuses on breathing and a clear state of mind to achieve a deep state of relaxation and awareness. Yoga, Qigong and Taichi are examples of meditative activities and will help you feel better mentally, emotionally and physically.
Nurturing Social Relations: Developing a larger social circle and taking an active part in our community is associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression, and greater empathy. In an 80-year-long study of adult development, a close relationship was found to delay mental and physical decline among participants and to be a better predictor of a longer and happier life. So, pick up the phone and call your friends/family, and plan the weekend.