Mental health is a vital part of our overall health and affects how we think, feel, and act. It’s just as important as your physical health and should be treated that way. But, why is self care important for mental health? Mental Health First Aid says that “Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more. It can help you adapt to changes, build strong relationships, and recover from setbacks.”
That’s why as part of our mission to inspire you to embrace your oasis and love the skin you’re in, we’ve put together 10 self-care tips below that can help boost your mood and strengthen your mental health.
1. Get a good night’s rest
Don’t skip out on sleep. The National Sleep Foundation says healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours per night. A proper night’s rest can help you wake up feeling refreshed, as well as help your body function properly. According to Columbia University’s Department of Psychiatry, “Sleep is critical to not only our physical health but also our mental health. Poor or insufficient sleep has been found to increase negative emotional responses to stressors and to decrease positive emotions.” Sleep will help keep both your emotions and stress levels in check, and help strengthen your immune system to fight off infections.
2. Don’t be afraid to say “no”.
It’s perfectly normal to need some ‘me-time.’ You should always prioritize your mental health and do what’s best for you - that means saying ‘no’ when you feel like you need to. We may feel obligated to say yes to plans from friends and family, but this can lead to burnout and mental exhaustion. Saying no at times is difficult, but it’s truly a necessity.
3. Disconnect and unplug from technology.
Taking a break from using electronic devices or social media may help improve your mental health. The American Psychological Associations’ annual Stress in America survey found that a fifth of U.S. adults list technology use as a significant source of stress in their life. This can be due to a number of reasons like the constant need to check in with the outside world, or comparing ourselves to what we see online. Whether you take a few days off or a few months, a digital detox allows you to be more present in the moment. We recommend using that extra free time to enjoy activities like going for a walk, applying your skincare routine, reading a book, and hanging out with loved ones.
4. Exercise regularly.
Another tip is to exercise regularly. The Mayo Clinic states “Regular exercise may help ease depression and anxiety by releasing feel good-endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals, and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being.” Try squeezing in at least 30 minutes of activity into your daily routine. Some self care examples include taking your dog for a walk, using the stairs instead of an elevator, or throwing on an at-home workout video. There’s many options! Find the ones that work best for you.
5. Pamper yourself.
Whether you like to get manicures and pedicures regularly, or you just love to soak and relax in a warm bubble bath, we say do whatever makes you happy! Pamper yourself by indulging in your daily skincare routine, sip some wine, and forget about the rest. You can even take your skincare routine to the next level by de-stressing with an at-home massage using an eye massager or face roller.
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6. Ditch all negativity.
You know the saying “misery loves company?” Don’t let others’ negativity ever get you down. When people are upset or unhappy with their own lives, it’s easy to take that out on the ones around them. Instead, try to surround yourself with only positive people who only raise you up. This will have a positive effect on your mental health and help you see the joy in life.
7. Spend time with loved ones.
Emotional self-care is real, so make time for the ones who count. Hang out with friends and family members who make you smile and have your best interests in mind. Feeling heard and seen by the people in your life can improve your mental health. So if you’re having a hard day and you feel it affecting your mental health, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
8. Get creative!
Expressing your creativity can be relaxing and help you feel productive - all the while helping you to prioritize yourself. Write in a self-care journal, paint a picture, or draw in a coloring book. These creative outlets let you channel your frustration into positive energy that can improve your mental health.
9. Practice daily affirmations.
Repeat after us: “I got this.” The more you treat yourself with kindness, the more you will believe in yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself. It can be easy to get in our heads and be our own worst critics, but you’re doing great. Never forget that. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small or big.
10. Treat yourself
Every now and then, we deserve to treat ourselves! Don’t ever hesitate to consider splurging on yourself, because you and your mental health are a priority. Want new skincare products? Buy it! Need to get away on a relaxing vacation? Do it. You’ve earned it.
Take care of yourself first with these mental health tips!
We hope with these mental health self-care tips, you can fully embrace your oasis and live life with the utmost happiness and joy. It’s the little things we do for ourselves that can help improve and make a positive impact on our well-being. Taking care of your mental health is a must at all stages of life.
Remember to give yourself some grace. You’re doing your best and we’re proud of you.
