Contributed By 10KSA and Alwaleed Philathropies
10KSA, in collaboration with our global partner Alwaleed Philanthropies, believe more emphasis should be placed on mental health.
In an attempt to drive holistic health, we encourage readers to be aware of the connection between mind, body and spirit. Mental wellbeing is imperative for good health. Whether dealing with everyday stressors or problems that require long-term solutions, your mental health can take a toll on your daily life during tough times. Resiliency is key, and as humans we have an innate capacity to stay mentally strong during difficult times.
Below are wellness suggestions to help improve your mental health during times of setbacks and challenges.
Communicate Your Feelings
Speaking to someone you trust about the way you feel can provide needed relief. Often talking something through and feeling that there is someone listening and understanding can make you feel much better. If negative feelings persist, please consult a trained mental health professional.
Healthy Relationships
Cultivating friendships and being surrounded by supportive family members may result in improved self-image and confidence, and may increase your ability to face the ebb and flow of life.
Healthy Habits: Sleep, Diet and Physical Activity
The above three elements are extremely important in terms of one’s overall mood and behavior.
- Sleeping between 7-9 hours per night.[1]
- Maintaining a healthy, well balanced diet and drinking plenty of water
- Being active releases “feel good” hormones called endorphins that improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression. It is recommended that adults “engage in moderate-intensity physical activity for at least 30 minutes on five or more days of the week.”[2]
Hobbies
Make time to do something you enjoy. Try and pick up a new hobby that interests you. Take a class and/or engage your creative senses. These activities can do wonders for your mental state, while cultivating and/or perfecting a new skill set.
Volunteer
Giving your time to others is not just beneficial to those you are helping but to you as well. Researchers at University of Exeter have found a strong positive association between volunteering and health, citing higher levels of happiness and self-esteem, as well as increasing longevity by 22%. [3]
Accept Your Uniqueness
Easier said than done, but avoid comparing yourself to others. Everyone has a journey. Value your worth and qualities that make you YOU.
Relax
Irrespective of stress, it is important to make time for yourself. Yoga, meditation and prayer can help you relax and reduce stress. Having a personal moment of stillness and reflection can do wonders for your psyche.
Join the 10KSA Women’s Event for Breast Cancer awareness on December 12! Check out their website to register!
