We pay very close attention to our bodies. We feed them properly with wholesome Raw Hummus Wrapsand nutrient-dense smoothies. We make sure to go to the gym or head to the park for brisk walks to get our hearts pumping. We go to the doctor for yearly check-ups or schedule an appointment when we’re feeling a bit under the weather.
But with all this attention that we pay to our bodies, we often forget about our minds. With all this attention to physical health, we often let our mental health fall by the wayside. Though that is the norm for most of us, it’s not the way it should be. In fact, it should be just as common for us to check in with our mental health to ensure that we are emotionally and mentally in tune.
It may sound alarming, but studies have shown that around 95 percent of us actually struggle with stress, with many of us never sharing our feelings because we think that feeling this way is normal, that it’s no big deal. We become so focused on daily, menial tasks that we completely forget about the basic human need (and right!) to care for ourselves emotionally, mentally and spiritually. We become absorbed by the world around us, ignoring what’s going on inside.
And although many of us are hesitant to put ourselves first, your brain should never be an afterthought because if you’re not doing well emotionally, everything else will suffer as well. So stop thinking of it as an indulgence and start viewing checking in with your mental health as a daily necessity. Just like eating and sleeping, it’s something you should do every single day.
Luckily, it’s super simple to do it, and it takes no time at all. We’ve come up with a simple Q&A you can do with your brain each day to keep things running like a well-oiled machine.
- How do I feel today, in this moment?
This is the easiest and most important question. Scan your body both mentally and physically to see what your current state of being is. Stress, depression and other emotions also manifest physically, so you may notice stomach pain or headaches if you’re not feeling great mentally.
- What’s occupying my mind?
Of course there won’t be only one thing you think about every day, but it’s critical to identify what’s taking up the most headspace. Figure it out and address it. That way you can free up space for other, more pleasurable things.
- Do I feel tired?
We often look at sleepas a luxury, but it’s essential for mental and physical health. If you feel fatigued or even exhausted, make sleep a priority and clear your schedule for a nap or an early night.
- Do I feel hungry?
When things are running smoothly in the body and the mind, we usually have a strong, steady appetite, but when we are suffering from depression or other mental health issues, we often lose the desire to eat. Nutrition is important! So make sure you’re stocking up on fresh, wholesome foods like juices, salads and soups.
- What is going to bring me joy?
Stressful and unpleasant things are an unavoidable part of life, but that doesn’t mean they have to be the only thing in life. Make sure that you carve out time every single day for something that brings you joy, whether that’s enjoying your lunch on a bench by the canal or lighting your favourite candle when you get home at night.