Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, fellow Google Moderator @AlexaAC and I wanted to share with you our mindfulness tips that we use and recommend.Please note that these tips do not represent a professional opinion. In case of serious mental or physical symptoms, you should contact a healthcare professional.
1. Connect with nature, even at home
Many positive psychologists believe that being close to nature improves well-being. The smell of grass, the sound of birds and ocean waves, and the sight of mountains can fill you with joy and energy.
The great thing is, there are ways to connect with nature even from home. You can look out your window, watch the sunrise and sunset, or learn how to grow different plants (for some inspiration, take a look at this virtual garden).
2. Connect with others
While it is important to practice physical distance right now, this doesn’t mean that we have to avoid social interaction. Thanks to the Internet and Google Meet, is it now easier than ever to keep in touch with friends and family. You can take part in virtual cooking workshops, fitness classes, or even organize a virtual meet-up. Connecting with others can reduce the feeling of loneliness and help to improve your mood.
3. Embrace your hobbies
Spending more time at home can be the perfect opportunity to revisit different hobbies. Doing something you enjoy boosts your creativity and mental health. Reading, for example, allows your mind to wander to various places while meeting great characters. If you like music, you can learn to play an instrument, or turn up the volume and dance to your favorite song (try “Dancing Queen” by Abba).
4. Create bucket lists
Bucket lists give us something to look forward to. Whether it’s a place you want to visit, a restaurant you want to try, or a photo you want to take, write it down. You can find inspiration in the amazing lists, reviews, photos, and posts other Local Guides have shared on Google Maps and Connect.
5. Organize your home
Cleaning and organizing your room or home can bring you a sense of accomplishment. By getting rid of stuff you don’t need, you make room for comfort and focus.
6. Do a social media detox
Some experts say that spending endless amounts of time on social media has the potential to negatively impact your mental health. If you feel this affects you this way, you can try to limit the constant stream of content coming your way, at least one hour before sleeping.
7. Live in the moment
Being grateful and having a sense of purpose can reduce fear and relieve stress. Some things we like to do to help overcome negative thoughts are being present, focusing on the moment, concentrating on the simpler things in life, and starting our day with reasons we feel blessed.
8. Improve your diet
Some experts have found a connection between diet and psychological well-being. They recommend a nutrient-based diet that fuels your brain cells to function correctly and regulate the performance of other systems in the body. Add fruit, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, prebiotics, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory rich food to your diet. The key is balance, not restriction.
9. Keep moving
Exercise is another measure that can improve your mindfulness practice. It releases endorphins and serotonin that can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you think more clearly. If you want to move more and stick to a routine, choose something you love to do. You don’t have to go to а gym; opting for exercise in the open air or at home can be just as fun and motivating.
10. Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is not only blissful, but it can help our bodies recover from mental and physical exertion. You can go to bed on time, remove distractions from your bedroom, follow a sleep schedule, curb caffeine, and try sleep and meditation apps to get the full benefits of a good night’s rest. This is easier said than done for most, so start taking a targeted approach to reap the benefits of quality sleep.
What are the things that you do to practice mindfulness? Tell us in the comments below.
