Your Mental Health is the most important part…Likely more than you think
Your health is largely dependant on how you “feel” your health is. Does that make sense?? Not at first probably, but think about it. Did you know that you can choose your mood every day. You get to decide how to start today and make it better than yesterday. Only YOU have control over this.
Mindset is a very powerful player here and it has control over all of your choices. If you do not “feel well” then you will lack motivation to do all things like: regular activity that brings you joy, spend time with friends, leaving the house or couch, doing your work, school or homework, Your “mood” will determine your control over everything. Last on your mind will be your exercise, food intake and trying to be healthy. You are barely getting through the day in survival mindset unless you decide to control it.
HAPPY MINDSET. The link below to the song “Happy” and a video of many happy people as they dance at a St. Patricks Day parade in Ireland. ** Beware it is contagious, at least the smiling part** The lyrics can literally put you into a happy state of mind. In fact, that is a challenge- download this song (on spotify, pandora or apple music… whatever you use to play music) and listen to it every morning to start your day off on the right foot. It is a perfect song to train yourself and to teach the kids what “happy mindset means” and music therapy itself is a very effective tool for mood.
Planning ahead- a sort of “controlled mindset”….making your mind up for the week on how you would like it to go and plan it out (see prior blog on goals). Eg. This week I will go to the gym 3 times. Then plan it: Tuesday, Thursday after work and Saturday after coffee and pack that workout bag while you have time this weekend.
Check in on your mental health and that of your kids- we are in the middle of a pandemic of anxiety and depression for all ages, but especially the kids. Most cases just need recognition and some parental guidance. Rates of suicide threats and attempts are up 250% as compared to 2019. I wish I could tell you “why this is happening now ?” But I do ask that you talk seriously with your child and acknowledge their concerns and bring them to seek help if needed. Your Doctor, therapist and schools are here to help. More posts later this month and next on mental health awareness and tools.
What brings you joy or makes you smile? Figure it out and do more of it. I enjoy traveling, reading, exercise and rainbows- Please find yours ….
Be Well- Dr. B
