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Jessica Santos –
The new year can be an opportunity to accept ourselves and challenge our inner energy into building our best live, including prioritizing our mental health. Here are some tips that can help you transition into the new year.
- Accept the Uncertainty – as we continue to deal with unprecedented amount of stress, it is important that we remind ourselves that life challenges and periods of uncertainty are normal aspects of the human experience. These moments can promote evolution of consciousness.
- Practice Self-compassion – compassion is the ability to show empathy, love, and concern to people who are dealing with life’s difficulties. Self-compassion is simply the ability to direct the same emotion inward and accepting oneself. This includes avoiding criticism and accepting our weaknesses. This can often lead to growth and personal development. Think of self-compassion as showing kindness to oneself.
- Seasonal Cleaning – there is a connection between cleaning and your mental health. The calendar uses the new year to mark the beginning of something, so it is the perfect time for a fresh start. Research has shown that clutter can contribute to depression, confusion, and tension. Clutter can also decrease focus. Clutter represents unfinished business, and this lack of completeness can be stressful for some. By cleaning, organizing, and reducing clutter, we can help create a more positive environment and better mood, giving you a sense of control and a more relaxing environment.
- Build New Connections – the way we connect has changed, especially as we deal with COVID-19. However, maintaining your relationships and finding community is possible. Technology, when used appropriately, can help us stay close to the ones that we love. It is important we keep the lines of communication open. People who feel more connected to others have lower levels of anxiety and depression. Social connectedness generates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Be Proactive – many activities that support physical health also promotes mental health. Two types of those activities are: the ones that bring a sense of accomplishment (completing laundry!) and the ones that brings joy (watching a movie). Incorporating both into your daily routine can help change your physical and mental state and reduce stress. These activities can also increase your motivation and self-esteem.
- Ask for Help – we are all in this journey called life together. Reach out for help if you feel your level of energy is low or if your stress level remains high.
