Here are 7 tips and 3 books that have helped me with my mental health...
Let me start with a small story about myself:
-The Reality of Burnout:
I've experienced first-hand the draining effects of burnout.
Moving across three countries in just five years, coupled with demanding work, frequent travel, sleep deprivation, and unhealthy eating (which led me to gain an extra 10kg) was not a great recipe for body and mind.
-Denying the Burnout:
As overwhelming as the burnout felt, I shied away from acknowledging its existence. Despite the unmistakable signs, I was reluctant to admit it to myself.
-Inconsistent Efforts:
I attempted various strategies to combat my feelings, including very infrequent meditation (I thought I was doing it to relax and not to train my brain).
💡 The Aha Moment:
Delving deeper into the workings of the brain, emotions, and the environment around me (a reason why I am a strong advocate for Behavioral Science), I understood what I had to do. (awareness of the need to change)
So here are some of my tips:
1.
Redefining Thoughts and Feelings
An essential realization was that emotions aren’t the ultimate truth of our lives. This shift allowed me to cultivate positive mental patterns rooted in kindness and curiosity.
2.
The Importance of Consistent Mindfulness
To kickstart our mental health, small moments of mindfulness throughout our day become imperative.
3. Daily Practices for Mental Resilience (I do very frequently:)
-Yoga: I do it at home, almost daily - (do it even if it is short, consistency is key) -Meditation: Techniques like body scans, loving-kindness, and grounding exercises (these are there to train your brain) -Noting: This technique became instrumental in anchoring me to the present. -Food and Exercise: Embracing healthier eating and regular physical activity - work with the environment you have ( I lost an extra 10kg)
4.
Emotional Reframing
Instead of drowning in anxiety, I learned to view it as excitement or as a ride in an amusement park - it has loops and drops, but you will feel great afterward - and yes, I made a memory from the past - so sometimes anxiety and panic will creep up.
5.
Breathwork
A smile, coupled with deep breaths when needed, became a simple yet profound reward.
6.
Understanding Setbacks
The journey to mental wellness isn't a straight path. It's dotted with occasional regressions, don't be hard on yourself - be kind and be consistent.
7.
Commitment to Mental Health
Mental health deserves as much dedication as physical health. The promise to oneself to stay on the path of mindfulness can lead to lasting well-being. - body and mind work together.
If you need it to work with a therapist, do so, as they can help you and have great tools.
One last thing - for all of this to work, you NEED to WANT to Change!
Here are the 3 books
1. Mindsight by Daniel Siegel 2. The Craving Mind by Jud Brewer, MD, PhD 3.
Unwinding Anxiety also by Dr Brewer