“Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.”
– Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and in recognition of this important aspect of wellbeing, we are sharing creative holistic tips for nurturing it.
So, here we go!
- Move in ways you enjoy. Try a yoga studio, seek out a new hiking trail, walk local gardens, or take your bike out of the garage for the day. See how creative you can get with your movement and note what you enjoy!
- Find interconnectedness with nature. Picnic in a park and walk on the grass barefoot, meditate or practice yoga outside, hike in the mountains, plant a garden, feel river or lake water on your toes. Take it a step further by journaling during or after your time outdoors.
- Educate yourself. Read a self-help book, listen to a mind-body informational podcast, or watch a documentary on how the brain works. Open your mind-set for learning more about this vital part of overall health.
- Utilize plant medicine. Consider adding herbal supplements to calm a busy mind and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Holy basil, lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, rhodiola, and ashwagandha can help calm the fight-or-flight response and relax the mind.
- Boost the brain with vitamins. Support neurotransmitters with theanine, GABA, 5HTP, and B vitamins. *Ask Dr. Graves about personalized suggested amounts and possible blends.
- Eat properly. Try not to skip meals and have fiber and protein with each meal to balance blood sugar. Opt for anti-inflammatory foods with omega-3 fatty acids like cold water fish, seeds, and fortified eggs and those with antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables.
- Honor your sleep. Respect sleep and the brain’s need to rest! Maintain good sleep hygiene (i.e., turning off electronics, going to bed at a proper time, etc.) and if sleep still needs attention, schedule a 15 minute phone call or naturopathic session with Dr. Graves for further recommendations.
- Learn something new physically. Create new neural pathways by trying new movement with the body. Foster the mind-body connection with such things as dance classes, lessons for a new sport, or tai chi or qigong.
- Nourish your sense of community. Devote meaningful time and space for your relationships. Write letters, schedule coffee meet-ups, make a phone call, or plan a date night. Find even more inner-connection with volunteer work in the community.
- Do something for you. Have you secretly been desiring a massage? Know deep down you could use an acupuncture appointment? Would talking to someone be of help? You deserve to take care of yourself. Your brain may thank you for it.
Can we help support your mental health through naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, massage, holistic counseling, and targeted herbal supplements? If so, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (303) 688-6698 or click here to schedule an appointment.
Take time to love and respect your mind!
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