Happy New School Year: 

 

Here are a few ideas to help you relax and restore your energy: 

Stretch it out.  When we stretch our bodies, it enhances circulation and can improve flexibility.  It also provides powerful movement that has been shown to increase levels of serotonin which can reduce anxiety and depression.  

Hydrate.  This is a good idea whether there is a heatwave or not.  Hydration supports all of our bodily function and even helps with cognitive clarity.  

Breathe mindfully.  Intentional breathing (can be done deeply or just with an awareness) helps reduce stress, increase focus, and regulates your nervous system. 

Connect with nature.  When we connect with nature through walking outside, observing animals, tending to a garden, or any other activity outside, it has been shown to reduce stress and improve your overall mental health.  

Detox from digital sources.  Designate a specific period of the day to disconnect from digital devices.  This kind of digital break can improve your mood and even help you get better sleep.  

Sleep well.  This can be way easier said than done, but getting quality sleep continues to be strongly correlated with improved health (physical and mental).  

Be kind.  Whether it's a small act of kindness for someone else or something you want to do for yourself, when we are intentionally kind it creates an incredible sense of satisfaction and well-being.  

Express gratitude.  When we take time to focus on what is going well or what’s good, it teaches our brain to look for those things more often.  The more we practice this, the more natural it becomes.  

Co-regulate with others.  Co-regulation is about connecting with other people who make your nervous system feel safe and secure.  You don’t have to think about it, just being in their presence makes you feel good.  Seek those people out!  

Rest without conditions.  Often we think we have to earn rest, consider taking time to do nothing without adding a qualifier or rationale to it.  You deserve rest.  Period.  There are also different types of rest so consider which type you may need most.  

 

- This week's MHT was brought to you by Regina Whittington, Social Emotional Behavior Specialist for RSD.