Unlock Better Mental Health with Simple Lifestyle Changes

Mental health refers to our psychological, emotional & social wellbeing. It determines how we think, what we feel & how we behave. It also impacts how we manage difcult stressful situations & cope with conicts.

Lifestyle changes can be powerful tools in treating many small & serious mental health issues. But even in case of those who don’t have a mental health condition, making positive life changes can be deeply empowering.

Here are a few suggestions from an experienced Psychologist:

Eat Healthy

Eating health is not just good for your body but also for your mental health. The simplest way to improve your diet is to cut out junk food, rened sugar & processed foods. Include healthy fats such as sh, nuts, fresh fruits & veggies ; amino acid rich foods (Neurotransmitters, which are important for mental health, contain amino acids) such as dairy products ; Complex carbs (Carbs stimulate production of serotonin, a feel good neurotransmitter) such as while grains, legumes & spinach.

Move more often

Regular physical activity increases production of body’s natural antidepressants. Studies also reveal that just 30 minutes of moderate to intense exercise a day for three to ve days a week can signicantly improve one’s mental health. It can also:

Lower stress levels

Improve Moods

Enhance self esteem

Fight Insomnia

Practice Meditation & Mindfulness

While body benets from movement, your mind benets from stillness. Meditation is an excellent means of giving yourself a mental break. Deep breathing, repeating a phrase or mantra can calm you down and relieve stress & anxiety. Yoga is also a great way of connecting the mind & body.

Disconnect

Your mental health can signicantly benet from less of scrolling & searching. Cut down on your screen time or even better disconnect for at least an hour everyday. You will notice a great difference in just a few days as decreased screen time will give you a much needed mental break.

Think Positive

Our thoughts have the power to build us or break us. They inuence how we feel & behave. Positive thoughts can help you see the good side of things. Positivity can give you the strength to ght through difcult situations.

Be Grateful

Research suggests that gratitude makes people happier. Being grateful for all the small & big things you have in your life can make a world of difference to your mental health. Incorporate it into your daily life by starting a gratitude journal.