Point blank, this year has been challenging. The world as we know it has changed drastically and many people have suffered as a result. Whether that be losing a job, a loved one, having to work, or go to school remotely…there are endless reasons why 2020 has been taxing. While we have been forced to focus on the “new norm” and leave our old lives behind us, the pandemic has brought a silver lining through some people’s improved mental health. “Improved?!” You may be thinking. That’s right, you heard us correctly!
Symptoms such as lack of sleep, depression, anxiety, and stress have all improved for some. While the world may be in shambles, our day-to-day lives have gotten quieter and simpler. During our time in lockdown, we have been given the gift of time to reflect on the past and live in the present moment. While it can be challenging to calibrate our new lifestyles, an optimistic perspective can make all of the difference. Mental health has taken a hit for some, but for others, the slower lifestyle has allowed them to step back, breathe, and focus on their mental health in a way that was too time-consuming previously.
As a result of the pandemic uprooting our lives, we are no longer plagued by many societal pressures we once had. In fact, some people have found they are actually free to be their true selves. The country’s lockdown could be referred to as an introvert’s dream. Gone are societal expectations and demands to have a lush social life, work 60 hour weeks, or overextend yourself when you’re feeling run down. We simply do not have as many options for things to do socially, and while this can hurt some people’s mental health, if you suffer from social anxiety, it could actually be a positive.
Being home the majority of the time, we have more time than ever to spend on our mental and physical health. The biggest takeaway is that we have time to put ourselves first. In order to do that, creating good self-care practices is the first step, and what works for one person may not work for another. Having an open mind can help explore options that are out there so that you truly know what works and what doesn’t. Stress and anxiety don’t have to be the new normal, instead, we can learn to destress and decompress with healthy coping mechanisms. While there are many things today that we cannot control, we can control how we deal with any hardships it may cause.
We are allowed a slower, more conscious approach to life, where we can reprioritize what’s truly important to us. Many people are struggling during this time, and we are all at risk during this pandemic, but focusing on the positives can help ease the stress. If you suffer from anxiety and depression, or you are looking to add positive routines into your life, here are 3 easy things you can do each day to improve your mental health.
3 Things to Improve Mental Health
Meditation
Meditation can have life-changing effects because it can help you feel calm, centered, and anchored in the present moment. It has been proven to improve your mental well-being as well as your overall health. The more you practice meditation, the easier it will come to you. This is why meditation is a great thing to learn during the pandemic.
Exercise
During pre-COVID times, many people were too exhausted to exercise or did not have enough time in their day. Exercise is more important than ever to prioritize because we are getting less of it naturally. There are many free, at-home workouts available. Exercising just twenty minutes per day can improve both your physical and mental well-being.
Journaling
Taking a half-hour out of your day that you used to spend commuting to write down your thoughts, feelings, and struggles can actually elevate your mood. Journaling, like meditation, evokes mindfulness, helping you reflect on the day but also stay present. We may feel like there are fewer people at our immediate disposal during this time, and writing down your thoughts and feelings helps to get out negativity and reflect on your day.
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