Taking into consideration that physical health is often dictated by mental health, it would be wise to take care of the latter seriously. In our busy day-to-day routine, it can be hard to remember that mental health is important, and it can be even harder to know where to start.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you). Please see my disclaimer policy to learn more.
There are countless ways that this can be achieved, but hiking/being in nature, meditation, yoga, nutrition, and listening to music are the focus here. Each of these ways offers well-documented and researched benefits that are advantageous to brain stimulation.
Hiking/ Being Out In Nature
Hiking is an excellent means by which our brains are given a chance to flourish. The combination of a serenely scenic and calming environment allows the mind to intellectually realign itself. Being out in nature has a documented, physiological effect on the neurological functioning of the brain.
A study conducted by Stanford University explores the benefits of being in nature, even in small doses. Unfortunately, the opportunities for many to experience a walk in nature for any period of time have grown fewer and farther between with the ever-expanding of the urban sprawl.
Noted by the findings is an acknowledgment that “more than half of the world’s population lives in urban settings, and that is forecast to rise to 70 percent within a few decades. Just as urbanization and disconnection from nature have grown dramatically, so have mental disorders such as depression.”
Yoga
Yoga is also greatly beneficial to mental health. In the practice of yoga, you are encouraged to use your body in many ways, but ultimately with the intention of drawing yourself inward. It increases body awareness, relieves stress, reduces muscle tension, strain, and inflammation, sharpens attention and concentration, and calms and centers the nervous system. This article details these findings, which talks about the link between yoga and a substantial decrease in both anxiety and depression.
The beauty of yoga is that it is for everyone. You do not have to be a yogi to reap the benefits. Whether you are young or old, overweight or fit, yoga has the power to calm the mind and strengthen the body. Choose a yoga class that fits with your physical capacity and mental health requirements. There are yoga courses for beginners and advanced.
Meditation
Meditation is an excellent practice in regard to mental health. It is a very intentional reflection allowing the brain to cease its racing, especially in these modern times that demand we continuously multitask, meet deadlines, and endure undue stress is a crucial practice for our overactive brains. Whether prayer, breathing exercises or focusing on the blessings in our lives, meditation promotes an environment of tranquility and peace in the midst of the chaos we have become accustomed to in our personal lives.
Meditation is a relaxation method that you can begin practicing right away. If it is something that you are practicing already, continue doing it as it is worthwhile. If you need direction on how to start, check out YouTube videos and Podcast episodes. My favorite podcast that I listen to daily is Tracks To Relax.
Nutrition
The role of nutrition is one of the most unrecognized factors in the development of mental health. We know nutrition has substantial physical impacts, but it is the mental impacts of nutrition that are gaining traction with additional research and heightening awareness around this topic.
Proper nutrition is what fuels our bodies and our bodies need a regular supply of fuel. If we supply our bodies with a diet with tons of sugar, we are filling up on poor fuel. But if we supply our bodies with a healthy diet, we are giving our brains the fuel it needs to affect our cognitive processes and emotions.
Music
Music can evoke nostalgia, good memories, and a general sense of warmth, all while engaging the brain. Research shows that listening to music can reduce anxiety, depression, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, memory, increase some cognitive functions, enhance learning and concentration, and ward off the effects of brain aging. Music is so good for your brain because it is one of the few activities that stimulate your whole brain.
Related articles on wellness:
- Morning Meditation: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
- 10 Powerful Ways To Stay Positive In Uncertain Times
- What Is A Meditation Garden And How To Create One?
- 35 Top Inspirational And Motivational Life Lesson Quotes
Pin It For Later!
Interesting article with very helpful information. Thanks for sharing.
I keep telling myself I need to get back into doing yoga regularly. I used to take classes many years ago, but I know it is something I could easily do at home if I could just motivate myself. Going to try to incorporate it into my days going forward.
Excellent mental health enhancement ideas – I’ve done many of them myself and they really work!
what a great post and its really helpful
Simple things that we can now also do at home to maintain our psycho-physical balance and face these hard days.
Really all these will make our mind stress free. Thank you for sharing
I really needed this! I’m just not able to focus while meditating. Any advice for that?
Try guided meditation. Your posture is whatever you are comfortable in. I am typically laying down on my bed or if I am sitting especially in my office, I prop my legs up on another chair and have the lights off. I use earbuds and it helps with the background noise as well.
Hiking is a must for me. Our family loves camping and trying to find ways for us to be outside together has kept us semi-sane through all of this.
Good job!
You have discuss good point – well written article
Fantastic post. I wholeheartedly believe in each and everyone of these things. And you are so right about nutrition. I would also add “find a creative outlet” to your post. That could be writing in a journal, drawing, painting, sewing, etc.
Music is one of my favourite ways to motivate myself and brighten my mood. Great post. Thanks for sharing.
So true, we often feel much recharged when doing some physical activity. I love mountaineering and yoga..
I needed to read this today. I love love love music! Have you heard the group Pentatonix! They are amazing!
Yes they are amazing!
Love this list! I’ve definitely been doing a lot more outdoor activities (where it’s safe), yoga and focusing on my nutrition. I’ll have to try meditating, too! Thanks for the tips.
These are all great activities that will help to improve the state of one’s mental health. I especially enjoy getting out into nature for a good hike!
These are fantastic tips! thanks so much for sharing! I especially love the tip about listening to music because it’s something I rarely take the time to do and it’s so good for the soul! Great article!
These are very good, practical ideas all wrapped up in a nice, neat package. Such good advice!
Thanks for the reminder that both physical and mental activity is important. Sometimes we forget the mental part and just concentrate on the physical.
Loved your suggestions! The last sunny day we had here in New Hampshire, my fiancé & I went on a hike. It was a lot of fun & got us out of the house for the majority of the day. I enjoyed it because it’s not something that we’d usually do together given our busy schedules!
-Madi xo
I love doing yoga so much! I’m going to have to try meditation next!
Lovely article! I don’t get to hear my own choice of music much these days (hello, kids around! Have to share the airwaves!), but when I do I realise just how much I miss it and how it brightens my mood and energy immediately!
Good ideas. Music is a balm to my soul. Love to listen and relax on a good hike. Thanks for sharing your processes.