Geelong Advertiser

Accessing the strength from within

MAINTAININ­G GOOD MENTAL HEALTH CAN BE CHALLENGIN­G IN TIMES LIKE THESE BUT IT’S THE SMALL THINGS THAT CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE IN THE LONG RUN.

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MAKE TIME FOR MEDITATION

Setting aside just five minutes a day for meditation is a great way to practice self care. There are a variety of different meditation apps to choose from with a host of practices varying in length. Simply find a quiet space, close your eyes and focus on your breath. The mediation will guide you, and with repetition you will realise you’re able to clear a space in your mind free from intrusive thoughts.

TAKE A BREAK FROM TECHNOLOGY

The go, go, go nature of the world means our minds are constantly switched on and thinking about the next thing we have to check off our list and working from home has blurred the lines even further. With a myriad of social media apps perpetuall­y pinging and begging for our attention it’s important to focus on your priorities. Set aside an hour or so a day where you avoid checking your phone and be prepared to see a rise in productivi­ty.

REACH OUT TO PEOPLE While the various COVID restrictio­ns might make it difficult to see friends and family in person, it doesn’t mean you can’t call or video chat. It’s an important time to check on loved ones not only to make sure they are coping but also feel that mood boosting sense of connection. A listening ear and a friendly voice can make all the difference to someone who is feeling lonely. It’s OK not to be OK, but don’t go it alone.

PRACTISE GRATITUDE When we’re feeling down in the dumps it can be difficult to see all the things we have to be grateful for in the world.

That’s why starting your day by writing down at least three things you’re grateful for can help to turn your mindset around and give you something positive to focus on throughout the day. It can be something as simple as being grateful for having food, shelter and clean water.

DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE AND MIND

With many people now working from home it’s more important than ever to make sure your abode has a calming atmosphere. After all, it’s the space you spend most of your time in. An easy way to calm your thoughts and feel organised is to clear out surroundin­g clutter you no longer need or want. A tidy space encourages peace and productivi­ty, while a messy one serves as a visual reminder of all the things you are yet to do.

 ?? Photos: iStock ?? Getting out into nature, practising gratitude and connection with loved ones, even virtually, can contribute to good mental health.
Photos: iStock Getting out into nature, practising gratitude and connection with loved ones, even virtually, can contribute to good mental health.
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