1. If you can, stay off social media for a while
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It’s no news that social media sometimes do more harm than good — that’s why Instagram was said to be “the worst social media app for young people’s mental health” according to a study in London. Besides that, according to researchers of Ottawa Public Health, people who spend more than two hours a day on social media have more tendencies of having mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Even though you should consider deleting some of the apps, you don’t have to completely block yourself out of it, since some apps like WhatsApp are essential for work and school. But, it is important to at least have some time away from it, since we spend so much time online.
Tip: iPhone users can easily regulate their time on apps and even block them after the set hours on settings!
2. Eat out… alone!
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Eating out with friends, family or your significant other can be very fun. But, eating out alone can be incredibly healing. Take the time to recharge you “social energy” and be mindful about your breath, the way the food tastes, anything. It can be either breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Whatever fits your schedule better! Pick that aesthetic pleasing restaurant or that cute cafe you’ve been dying to go and try it for yourself!
3. Start a journal
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This may seem like a cheesy tip, but it’s actually a pretty effective one! According to psychologists, keeping a journal can help you understand your emotions and relieve stress. So, grab a notebook, find a quiet space (or go to a cafe), get comfy and start writing!
4. Take a walk around your neighborhood
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Walking can make wonders to your mental health, improving from self-esteem to sleep quality! But, be careful. Avoid walking around with headphones, make sure you pay attention to your surroundings and know where you are going. For that, usually, morning walks are safer.
Tip: You can take this time to also hydrate yourself — which is very important to mental health as well. Walk a around with a water bottle and if you think that is boring, try flavoring it with some fruit!
5. Clean your bag
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I know it sounds weird. But, trust me, cleaning your bag can make you feel renewed and relieved. It’s like a fresh start! And even if there’s nothing to clean, try to organize everything. Throw away receipts that you don’t need anymore, refill your stocks of tampons or pads and even put a little toiletry bag in it!
6. Put some music on!
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Either dancing, singing, creating a new playlist or listening to it, music is can be therapeutic.
A study says that music has an impact on the human stress response. Listening to and playing it can lower the “stress hormone”: cortisol. So, the next time you feel stressed, consider blasting some of your favorite tunes!
7. Have a relaxing bath (or shower)!
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A long hot bath can be one of the most relaxing things on earth. That’s a fact. Bath bombs and candles are the recipe for a perfect spa night.
But, if you don’t have a bath tub at home,don’t worry, you can have a shower as relaxing! Dim the lights, make it extra hot (be careful not to burn yourself) and enjoy it!
While in your shower or bath, pay attention to your breathing. That is an easy way to practice mindfulness into your morning/night routine.
Tip: hanging eucalyptus leaves in your shower head can make your shower aromatic and even health-boosting! With the steam, the leaves release some natural properties, that act as a decongestant.
8. Try keeping a skin care routine
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First things first: skin care is self care! So, the physical benefits come along with the mental ones. Taking proper care of your skin is the first step to boosting your self-esteem.
The best part? You don’t need to spend a million bucks into it. Sticking to a product you like is enough to bring you joy and plain relaxation.
9. Read a chapter of a book before sleeping
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It is scientifically proven that sleeping can reduce stress. This happens because, when reading, your mind is distracted from daily worries that cause tension. Besides that, using that little moment in bed before falling asleep to read will prevent you from all the bad effects of using technology before bed (like insomnia).
10. Meditate
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Last but not least: meditate! I know, it has become mainstream nowadays. But, setting aside 10 to 15 minutes in the morning for meditation and mindfulness practices can make wonders. The key is to be consistent.
Tip: Apart from YouTube videos, there are countless meditation apps available on both AppStore and Google Play.
Luckily, with all these tips, you’ll be able to spend a little more time taking care of yourself!