Strategies for a Content and Satisfied Existence in 2018
Want to make sure you're living your best life in 2018? Here are some suggestions to boost your mental and physical health:
- Get moving! Regular exercise isn’t just great for staying fit—it also improves your mental health. A study from the University of British Columbia found that women's perception of their own bodies improves post-exercise, regardless of mood or actual fitness level, and it can counteract and prevent depression. Don't force yourself to hit the gym or go for a run if it feels like a chore; find a physical activity that brings you joy to make it easier to stick with. Why not try something out of the ordinary like bouldering? This sport has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression, such as low moods, fatigue, and a lack of concentration.
- Nature time is good for the soul. Research shows that green spaces and spending time in nature contribute to happiness, while a lack of access to nature can lead to depression. If you're feeling stressed or down, take a break and head outdoors for a walk, even if it's just around the block. And remember that walking itself has been shown to encourage creativity and boost mood!
- Sleep is crucial for your overall well-being. A study from the University of Warwick found that people who got enough sleep experienced a happiness boost comparable to winning the lottery. So prioritize getting a good night's sleep, and follow simple tips like avoiding electronics before bedtime and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Additionally, research shows that having a clear life purpose can lead to better sleep at night, so take some time to think about what truly matters to you and how you can achieve your goals.
- Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support your brain and gut health and help prevent depression. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast, pack healthy snacks for work, and make an effort to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. Not to mention, there's no need to give up treats altogether—research shows that hot chocolate can actually boost your mood and potentially even enhance cognitive abilities!
- Show kindness to yourself and others. Researchers from the University of Hertfordshire found that self-acceptance can lead to greater happiness, but it's a habit that most people struggle to cultivate. Make a conscious effort to practice self-love and self-care by treating yourself with kindness, embracing your emotions, and focusing on your strengths rather than your weaknesses. And extended that kindness to others by engaging in acts of generosity, such as volunteering or performing small acts of kindness daily.
- Don’t forget the power of gratitude! Practicing gratitude can lead to more optimism and improved relationships, so take a moment each day to reflect on the things you're thankful for.
- For those battling depression, consider incorporating meditation and yoga into your daily routine as they are known to alleviate symptoms such as low moods, fatigue, and a lack of concentration, as suggested by various studies in health-and-wellness and mental-health.
- If you're seeking alternatives to traditional therapies, other avenues like meditation, yoga, or even nature therapy could be beneficial. Spending time in green spaces has been connected to increased happiness, while the practice of meditation has been shown to improve mental health and reduce stress levels.
- Science tells us that maintaining good sleep hygiene is crucial for overall well-being. The University of Warwick discovered that getting enough sleep results in a happiness boost equivalent to winning the lottery. Meditation, reading, or listening to calming music before bedtime can aid in achieving a restful slumber.
- To supplement physical exercise and a nutritious diet, explore various mental-health boosting activities such as meditation or other alternative therapies. These practices can enhance your mood, promote creativity, and foster a greater sense of self-acceptance.
