We've long been aware of mental hygiene and its effect on our overall well-being. Even the Romans talked about it. In the first century AD, poet Juvenal famously wrote: Mens sana in corpore sano, which roughly translates to “a healthy mind in a healthy body.” Sadly, that's often easier said than done, but goo
d physical health can help maintain a healthy headspace.
Here are five mental health fundamentals you can focus on:
1. Sleep
Lack of sleep is a leading cause of poor focus and anxiety. Prioritizing time away from your phone and increasing your time spent asleep is key.
2. Exercise Movement is a must, many of us could benefit from going for more walks, runs, and gym sessions.
3. Nutrition 95% of your serotonin is produced in your gut, so eat good quality foods.
4. Relationships Relationships are what make us human. Intimate, in-person social experiences are vital.
5. Progress Our ancestors had to constantly be making progress to survive, our brains are wired for progression and love when we align with it.
These five pillars all activate your happy hormones. Dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. (excerpted from an interview with Instagram's @psychologyposts)
Rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 in each of these areas and then choose an area where you would like to improve your score.
Come up with a plan of action using Specific, Measurable, Accountable, Realistic and Time Sensitive goals. For instance, a SMART goal may be, “I want to stop using my phone a hour before I go to bed every night.”
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