In the past year, we have seen a lot of focus being shifted to being physically fit. The pandemic has shed light on the importance of physical fitness. Just as physical fitness indicates ability of the body to physically function efficiently and effectively, mental fitness is recommended for the mind to function well across a range of situations. We have also witnessed growing concerns and conversations around the importance of mental health.
As you take each day head-on, you have an important role to play in protecting the physical and mental health of yourselves and making it your topmost priority. Staying both mentally and physically fit can be an effective treatment against both depression and anxiety. Each day brings with it a renewed opportunity to engage in physical and mental activities that showcase benefits in the long and short run. I have listed down some key topics that will help build your wellness quotient.
Physical Fitness
Physical activity is important for women of all ages. Regular physical activity can improve your health and prevent many diseases and conditions that become a major cause for death and disability. If keeping aside a large chunk of the day aside for physical activity is not impossible, try to break it into 2-3 small parts. For eg: Three 10-minute bouts of physical activity over the day have the same health benefits as a continuous 30-minute session.
Mental Gym
Keep your brain active. There are various scientific ways that assist you in building your own mental gym. Building mental strength is not different from building physical stamina. Training your brain can help you be more creative, productive and resilient. Practice solving puzzles, build your vocabulary, learn a new skill, take a new route, learn a new language etc. to stimulate and enrich your mind. The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is look into the mirror and smile. This is the best way to trick my mind into staying happy irrespective of whatever the mood I wake up in.
30 Day-Challenge
Take a 30-day challenge. Note down 30 things you want to do in a particular month. It could be anything small from call a friend to practice gratitude. Allocate one activity for each day and tick off all the boxes. You could include your fitness goals as one activity per day. This helps you to consciously make an effort to focus on self-care and find ways to make mental and physical fitness a part of your daily life.
Start Journaling
Journaling is a tool that allows you to process complex thoughts and emotions, to understand them more clearly. This promotes positive thinking and self-talk. Journaling is an effective way to help clear your mental clutter, focus on your mind, and build awareness of your thoughts and feelings.
Time Management
Allocating time for fitness related activities can seem like a daunting task. Most of us are unable to allocate time for activities are important for our personal growth. Managing your times plays an effective role to solve this problem. You need to dedicate time to think about your goal and priorities to divide time between personal, professional and family time. Prioritize important tasks and do accomplish one task at a time. Value your time and use time management tools effectively and recognize and reward your achievements however close or distant they may seem from your milestones.