With the autumn season approaching, mental health becomes a growing concern. The cold days and miserable weather can take a toll on how we feel. While everyone is different, I’d like to explore some easy, maintainable ways to take care of your mental health during these challenging times. These suggestions aren’t must-dos, but simple areas to consider.
Although there are many strategies out there, here are a few I feel are some of the easiest yet most effective ways to take care of yourself.
Music
For me, music is a remedy for the soul. Certain songs can reach parts of the brain that nothing else can, and there’s a genre or track for every mood and moment. Music has the power to change or enhance how you’re feeling.
I recommend exploring new genres—ones you might not have even heard of before—and creating playlists. In fact, why not make a few playlists for different moods? Spend time searching for new styles of music and experimenting. Listening to music allows you to channel emotions and disconnect from the outside world.
Gym/Exercise
The word gym or exercise can seem intimidating, but from research and personal experience, physical activity is transformative in more ways than one. Exercise positively impacts the body by improving circulation, encouraging deep breathing, and engaging muscles. It also promotes hydration, which is vital for overall health and mental clarity.
The brain itself is made up of water, so staying hydrated naturally helps you feel better.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet goes hand in hand with exercise. The link between nutrition and mental health is undeniable: eating nutritious food makes you feel good, while unhealthy food often leaves you feeling sluggish.
Spare Time
Make the most of any spare time in your day.
- Connect with others: Reach out to friends or family for a chat, coffee, or even a pint. Spending time with others fosters connection and helps combat feelings of isolation.
- Pursue hobbies: Find a new hobby or rediscover an old one. Develop a skill you’re good at or have always wanted to try. Perfect it—make it your own. Finding a new interest can be transformative and open doors to new opportunities.
- Try meditation: One of the simplest yet most effective practices to incorporate into your day is meditation. Breathing exercises can calm the mind and offer significant psychological and physical benefits. With just 10 minutes a day, you can experience noticeable changes.
Sleep
Sleep is vital for maintaining mental health. It affects every aspect of your body, from your physical state to your cognitive abilities.
Although some people struggle to get enough sleep, there are ways to improve sleep quality:
- Practice breathing techniques.
- Listen to soothing music before bed.
Aim for 8 hours of sleep—the optimal amount to maximize functionality and feel refreshed the next day.
By incorporating these small but impactful changes into your routine, you can help improve your mental health during the autumn months. Take things one step at a time and find what works best for you!
