As many of you may know (or not), today is World Mental Health Day. For someone who suffers General Anxiety Disorder, Depression, and Trichotillomania, mental health is extremely important to me. Also, in the past I suffered and overcame eating disorders. It is necessary sometimes to take a step back, relax, and take some time to yourself. Yes, I take “meds”, but that is not my only step taken for recovery. Many other factors come into play when it comes to overcoming mental health disorders. Here is a list of things you can do as well to just relax and relieve some stress on this beautiful day!
do some yoga
Okay I’m going to be honest, I’ve only recently tried yoga and it was the best decision I have made. Some of my friends and I went to the Boston Garden and did an evening yoga session and it felt amazing and relaxed my entire body. This is a great way to get outdoors, enjoy a view, exercise, and feel good all at once! This can even be done inside if you do not choose to leave the comfort of your own home.
go sit/ people watch in a park
As cliché as this sounds this is one of my favorite things to do living in a city. Everyday in between classes I find time to find a bench or a nice grass patch and people watch. Sometimes I get lucky enough to encounter some adorable dogs while doing my homework or sometimes I even treat myself to some nice music and a tall Iced Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks 🙂
block out the world, put headphones in, and listen to music
This can be done anytime, anywhere and will help you calm down. Throw on some rock music to get your anger out or put some calm music to release some stress.
treat yourself
As I mentioned before, treating myself to Starbucks makes me happy. Okay, maybe my bank account doesn’t agree, but I am so content walking around sipping on my Iced Chai or a Peach Lemonade!
watch leaves fall
This surprisingly will calm you while you watch the ever-changing leaves fall to the ground during autumn.
make a pile of leaves and just throw them
And after all the leaves have fallen, bring out the kid in you and throw them!
pick the perfect outfit… and rock it
Every time I leave the house I have to have the perfect look to enjoy the day. Honestly, looking good will help make you feel good!! I feel that if I have an awesome outfit, nothing can go wrong.
run with some beautiful scenery
I try to get out and run a couple times a week around the Boston Commons and Boston Garden. Yes, it is a force to motivate myself to get out and moving, but once I start, I can’t stop! (Okay maybe I can… but you get my point). I throw on some great music, listen to the birds, and enjoy the nice weather while exercising! And this way, I can eat more 🙂
sit by the water
Sitting by the water at night and enjoying the skyline will relax you, wherever in the world you are. Bring a speaker with you, play some calm music, and just relax.
grab and friend and jam to your favorite songs
This song brings back such good memories and always gets me off my feet. Grab your friends, jam some music, dance like no one is watching, and release all the stress from your day!
binge watch your new favorite show
Even though it is said to make you feel unproductive, binge watching from time to time can help you get your mind off of things. What I do, is every night some friends and I sit and watch a couple episodes a night to calm down from the stressful college life.
let loose and explore
Staying inside all day is only going to make things worse… get outside and explore!! Check out a place you’ve never been before or go without a destination and see where you end up! You never know what you may find – maybe your new chill spot.
go to a party
No, I am not saying to do this everyday. That will NOT calm you down whatsoever. Personally though, going out once a week or biweekly lets me forget about whatever is stressing me out – and that ultimately helps me.
make a GIF (or two) you can always laugh at
I know this is random, but I can always count on these to put a smile on my face.
Reminisce on some amazing times
If you are feeling down on yourself think about some great times you have had and the people you affect. I know there is someone out there that appreciates your presence and would love to go on adventures with you.
…and… complete a blog post!!
Should I be studying for my test on Wednesday instead of doing this blog post? Well… maybe. But now, I feel a lot better after writing this post for you all and I have something done that I am proud of. Creating this blog was inspired by all of my mental health disorders and this has helped me cope with my issues significantly.
P.S. If you encounter my blog and you are having any problems, feel free to contact me via my blog, Instagram, or my email: christinehachem8@gmail.com. I will always do my best to help!
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