Do you find yourself being optimistic at the start of a new school year, a new job or new transition, but later find yourself overwhelmed, lost and tired? There are many ways to prevent this and turn good activities into healthy habits for a strong (school) year. Here are 8 areas of your routine to consider revamping for a strong start to your (or your kids’) semester.
Diet – There is a connection between your gut and your brain (via the Vagus Nerve), and you can change how you feel by eating healthy foods, hydrating well throughout the day and avoiding sugary foods.
Exercise – Making deposits into your health is a great form of pacing. One of the athletes that I like to follow says that we “rent our fitness… and rent is due each day”. This helps me exercise even when I do not want to because I want to feel good/be healthy tomorrow.
Prioritize Mental Health – Request a call to get a checkup from the neck up! Many mental health problems are exemplified in our daily lives before we realize that we may be depressed or anxious. Sometimes our relationships are flat or we become overly forgetful at work.
Spend time with Friends – Prioritizing time to laugh is like medicine for the soul. Friends also replicate much of the support that is experienced in therapy. Go out for a coffee date or a walk with a trusted person (or people) in your life.
Take needed breaks from work – Just like we wouldn’t sprint at the start of a marathon, don’t work extra hours (unless necessary) as a way to pace yourself through projects or school seasons. Respect your brain and body’s need for rest each day.
Try organizing an area of your life – It is amazing what a little spring (or summer… or fall) cleaning will do for your mental health. Maybe it is a closet or drawer that needs to be cleaned out. Maybe it’s your iPhone apps. You choose and get to organizing!
Create space for fun – Have as much fun as you can. Try playing a game with family or friends, or try something in town that is attractive or outside your comfort zone.
Take the Self Care Check Up – On the airplane, you are told to put on your life preserver and oxygen mask before aiding those around you. Same applies here. Check out how you can integrate new self-care routines into your schedule today!
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Disclaimer: Grayson’s credentials are noted in the footer below. This blog post is not intended to replace therapy or counseling services. While this post may represent psychoeducational content that brings clarity or helps you personally, Grayson encourages you to process your findings and concerns with your mental health counselor and/or other trusted people in your life. If you have questions, comments, or concerns about the content of this post, or want to start counseling please contact Grayson directly.
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