Today we focus on mental and emotional wellbeing. Just like our physical health, our mental and emotional health needs to be looked after too . Junk food, alcohol, and smoking negatively impact physical health very much the same way as a stressful job, toxic relationship, or loneliness may impact negatively on mental health.
Mental wellness may mean many things to different people. Taha hinengaro may refer to the heart, mind, conscience, thoughts or feelings. When we are mentally well, we are better able to cope with the challenges which life will inevitably throw us. We cannot avoid problems, but we can make an effort to change how we perceive and react to them.
Here are some ideas on how you can explore taha hinegaro:
Meditation & Mindfulness
Sitting down for 10 minutes to zone out is a healthy way of grounding yourself and taking a quick time out from a busy day. I did a longer post about how to meditate which you can read here: https://potential.health.blog/2019/08/26/meditation-what-is-it/
Talk to People!
If you have someone special to you who says they are there to talk anytime you need. Use them! Don’t feel guilty about unleashing about how bad a day has been. If they are a good friend they will listen without judgement and be there for you no matter what. Don’t forget to return the favour someday too!
Get Moving
Exercising is well known to give you a good mood boost. Sure, it can be difficult getting out the door and pushing through the pain of a tough workout, but the feeling afterwards is so worth it! Maybe you could try a new sport or type of exercise too!
Be Grateful
Sometimes we need to stop and appreciate what we already have. Take the time to write down 3 things you are grateful for each day. I’ve written more on gratefulness here: https://potential.health.blog/2019/06/29/gratefulness/
volunteer and give
Give and you shall receive. Helping others and volunteering provides a feeling like no other. Not only do you feel fantastic for helping someone else at no cost, it can also be a good opportunity to meet some incredible people, giving you a strong sense of community and belonging.
These are just a few ways on how you can explore your way to mental and emotional wellbeing. Go and try at least one of these activities today or in the next week. Get back to me on how it went!
For more information, visit https://mhaw.nz/
HELPLINES
Need to talk? – Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 or free text 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865
Youthline – 0800 376 633
POTENTIAL 