Nowadays, the demands on our attention are near-constant. We mind find from time to time that our minds are running on empty. Stress, fatigue, and other mental health problems, minor and severe, are more common than ever – so what can be done to deal with them?
Take in some scenery
The great outdoors is a fantastic antidote for anxiety. Combine it with some low-intensity exercise, like walking, and you may find that you gain some much-needed perspective on life’s little problems. A walk through the hillside, or along a deserted beach, is a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Trains to Brighton are a great way of accessing the beach if you’re based further inland – so make sure you take advantage!
Adjust your diet
If you aren’t eating right, then your physical health will be impacted – and since your brain is a physical organ, you can expect your mental health to be affected, too. The usual culprit in modern times is an excess of dietary sugar, and a lack of fibre.
Exercise
Exercise promotes the release of stress-busting endorphins. It’ll stave off a whole range of physical illnesses, from cancer to heart disease, and it’ll make you look and feel better, too. NHS guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity – but any amount is going to help.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness is a new and trendy practice among the modern, stress-riddled workforce. It involves paying attention to the present moment – usually starting with something simple like paying attention to the breath. Through it, you’ll be able to realise just how out-of-control your thoughts are, and then bring them back in. You’ll find a range of apps and instructional services online, each providing a slightly different take on the topic.
Creative Pursuits
You’ll get a similar meditative effect from certain creative pursuits, especially when you get yourself into ‘the zone’. Whatever you’re picking up, make sure that it’s something you enjoy – and set aside an hour or so every day during which you can pursue it without any distractions.
Technological Detox
Nowadays, we’re constantly connected to social media, whose job it is to keep us scrolling for as long as possible. This leads to compulsive behaviour, that has all manner of side effects, and it can be difficult to break out from it. Making a conscious decision to break from the technology can be hugely beneficial – set aside an hour or two before bed during which you won’t check Facebook or Twitter. You’ll find plenty of apps, like Blocksite, which are designed to monitor and control your internet usage. Great for those lacking willpower!
Good tips we all need to remember. I’ve struggled to switch off as a rule, but lockdown has changed that for me. I’m learning to enjoy the time and the peace. A digital detox though helps. I try and keep off social media or watching the news in the morning. It improves my mood for the rest of the day. It’s too easy to see something that winds me up and stay angry.