It’s a new year and, traditionally, that means one thing: there will be many weight-centered resolutions made. Perhaps you have even made one? But, if you have not quite settled on how to improve something in your life this new year and new decade, may we suggest working on something often neglected, but just as important to your overall sense of well-being?
Our emotional health is something we should aim to caretake on an ongoing basis. Then, when we are faced with life’s stressful and most challenging situations and events, we are better prepared to cope with them. So, how can we make sure that when it comes to this aspect of our health, we are emotionally equipped?
Health experts suggest you work on six key areas
1
Develop a Positive Mindset remember the old adage, “Don’t sweat the small stuff”? This is actually the core principle to remaining positive. When you are able to hold on to positive emotions longer you become more resilient when negative situations in life occur. Developing a strong sense of appreciation for life’s good times can also help you do this. People with positive mindsets possess the ability to practice self-forgiveness, spend time with positive-minded people, have a willingness to explore their beliefs as they relate to the meaning and purpose of life, remember their good deeds, and develop healthy physical habits.
2
Make Sure You Get Enough Sleep there are many reasons why it seems harder and harder to make this happen, but it is vitally important in maintaining health and maintaining that positive outlook on life. If you’re having difficulty make sure you establish a regular schedule for sleeping and waking, and stick to it. Also, avoid alcohol and other stimulants like caffeine and nicotine late in the day, cut off screen time at least one hour prior to going to bed, create a dark, comfortable, and quiet environment for sleep, and relax with a bath or some reading before retiring. See your physician if your sleep issues continue.
3
Reduce Stress easier said than done, right? Of course, we’re all stressed for various reasons and at varying intervals, but if stress becomes long-lasting for you, you could be suffering from chronic stress. You can learn to manage this condition by ensuring you get enough sleep, exercising regularly, thinking positively (remember what you accomplished during the day; not what you didn’t get to), enhancing your social support network, setting realistic priorities so you don’t become overwhelmed, and/or trying meditating and other relaxation practices like yoga or tai chi. Above all, if you’re feeling overwhelmed for an extended period of time and nothing you do seems to help, seek advice from a health professional.
4
Create More Healthy Social Connections studies show that our links to others through healthy relationships can increase our sense of well-being and, perhaps, may even help us live longer. These relationships, whether they are with our kids, spouses, other family members, and/or friends, form a vital support network for us. These should be reciprocal relationships that are there for you as you are there for them. You should also seek to enhance your social circle by joining clubs or groups with similar interests as you, such as taking a class to learn something new, volunteering for a cause that has meaning for you, and traveling to connect with people outside your geographical area.
5
Practice Mindfulness this ancient practice encourages you to get outside of your own head, your bubble, if you will, and take time to really observe and take in the world around you. Be present as you traverse through your day and resist the urge to be on “auto-pilot” whenever you can. Some exercises that can help you be more mindful include remembering to take some periods during the day to take some deep breaths, enjoy a stroll—in nature if at all possible, practice mindful eating by taking the time to let your brain experience not just the taste of foods, but also its texture and how it makes you feel, experience each bite, and listen to your body when it tells you, you’re getting full.
6
Deal with Loss we all will experience the loss of a loved one sooner or later. When this happens it is essential that you practice self-care; eat well, get enough sleep, exercise, speak with caring friends, join a grief support group, refrain from making any major changes to your living situation or your job at this time, seek additional support through a therapist and/or physician, and by all means be patient with yourself. Give yourself the time you need to mourn; only you can decide how long that will be.
