During Mental Health Awareness Month, we are sharing some stress management tips from author and Intersectionality Advisory Group Member Hira Ali, from her book, "Her Way to The Top":
Keep a Gratitude Journal: Practicing gratitude can significantly impact your daily life by reducing stress and attracting positive energy. It's essential to distinguish gratitude from complacency; you can be grateful while still being ambitious. Negative feelings create a cycle of disappointment, but regularly acknowledging even one positive thing can uplift your spirits. A gratitude journal can foster calmness, lower stress levels, and provide new perspectives.
Embrace Laughter: Laughing is not only free but also therapeutic. It releases feel-good brain chemicals, reduces stress hormones, and relaxes muscles. So, find reasons to chuckle often!
Cherish Quality Time: Bonding with loved ones over a meal, a chat, or simply goofing can provide emotional support and distract from daily stressors. Make time for family and friends to uplift your spirits.
Prioritise rest: Taking breaks and vacations isn't a luxury; it's essential for mental well-being. Don't hesitate to disconnect and recharge, whether it's a day off or a week-long holiday.
Get Moving: Exercise in any form, even a short daily walk or a stretch session, can significantly boost your mood and overall health. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a routine.
Cultivate Hobbies: Engaging in activities you love, whether painting, cooking, or gardening, can nourish your soul and bring immense satisfaction. Make time for hobbies that spark joy and creativity.
Disconnect from Social Media: Limiting screen time and taking breaks from social media can alleviate stress and improve productivity. Don't let digital distractions overshadow real-life connections.
Set Achievable Goals: Break long-term goals into manageable sub-goals. Reward yourself after each step to stay motivated. Celebrate your progress along the way to find purpose in your journey.
Practice Mindfulness: Spend a few minutes daily practising mindfulness or meditation to quiet your mind and enhance your emotional well-being. Indulge in calming rituals like a warm bath or lighting scented candles.
Exercise: Engaging in any form of exercise, such as dancing, yoga, walking, or even daily stretching, contributes to overall health. Dedicating just 20 minutes to an enjoyable activity can enhance circulation and jumpstart your metabolism.
Minimize Decision Fatigue: Simplify your daily routines to conserve mental energy and reduce decision fatigue. Establishing habits like wearing similar outfits can free up mental space for more meaningful choices.
Treat Yourself: Invest in self-care activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, whether it's a spa day, a relaxing hot bath, nature walks, or simply indulging in your favourite hobbies. Prioritise your well-being and pamper yourself as you can—it doesn’t have to be something extravagant or expensive.
Incorporating these practices into your life can promote mental wellness and cultivate a healthier, happier mindset. Remember, your well-being matters, so prioritise self-care and seek support when needed.
Hira Ali, Author, Intersectionality Advisory Group Member