Some Simple Ways to Improve Mental Health

In our daily lives we often experience stress or anxiety. It might be a bad neighbour, or losing a job. It could be failing to get promotion, or a child’s broken bone.

None of us are immune to stressors, but it is how we respond that matters. We can move on or get stuck. Getting stuck is serious, so here are some simple tips.

Go for a walk with no destination. 80% of people who tried this felt the benefit* You have no agenda, you’re free to roam.
Smile at people. It releases dopamine, our happy brain chemical.
Stop drinking alcohol, it is a depressant.
Spend time in a park or woods. Eat ice cream if there is a vendor. There is a child in all of us.
Try to spend time with people who make you laugh.
Meet up with friends or family, but not if they tend to be negative.
Garden. It is so good for your mind. If you handle soil, you will inhale good bacteria.
If you are near mature trees, spend time there. They emit a scent which is good for us.
Stick to your normal routine.
Don’t isolate, you will feel worse. Get out there, even just to the supermarket.
Play birdsong on your laptop or phone. YouTube has a good selection.

I you feel anxious or depressed for a month, please see your doctor. You may need medical help for a short while.

I have suffered from insomnia on and off for years. I recently started playing bird song when I go to bed. I now sleep really well.

Other things that help sleep are Magnesium Glycerate, and Tryptophan. I get mine from Amazon, which I hate, but they should be available in a pharmacy.

*I asked my clients to do this.

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This post was previously published on medium.com.