By: Karen Wood – VP of Human Resources at Nth Generation
During Mental Health Awareness Month, the Nth Generation team has been looking at various aspects that positively impact our mental health.
Mindfulness
We kicked May off by looking at mindfulness. Originating from a Buddhist meditation technique, mindfulness has adapted over time and studies have shown that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) leads to a 70% reduction in anxiety. Tips to be more mindful include taking time to become more aware of our surroundings, especially when we first wake up – noticing what we see, hear, touch and smell. Also, by taking deep breaths, focusing on one task at a time, actively listening during conversations, and practicing gratitude.
Gut-Brain Connection
We then explored the gut-brain connection. Did you know that having good gut bacteria is critical to our overall health and not having good gut bacteria can negatively affect both our bodies and our brains? Our gut bacteria can be harmed by a number of factors, such as drinking too much alcohol, overuse of antibiotics, lack of regular exercise, smoking, too much stress, not enough sleep, and not eating a diverse range of foods.
Exercise
Next, we considered the health benefits of exercise. and how regular exercise can improve sleep quality, confidence and self-esteem, reduce stress, increase cognitive function, alleviate depression and anxiety, develop interpersonal relationships, and strengthen resilience.
Travel
Travel is positive for mental health because it can reduce stress, boost happiness, increase creativity, improve self-confidence, foster personal growth, and promote mindfulness. Also, a simple weekend away is enough to boost mental health!
Hobbies
Finally, we explored how engaging in hobbies can boost our wellbeing, reduce stress, improve optimism, and even ease symptoms of depression. You may start a new hobby by brainstorming, tapping into our childhood, perhaps taking an assessment to better understand aspects of our personality, narrowing down our list, reaching out to others, testing things out, being mindful of your schedule, and letting go of perfection!
The mind and gut are complex organs. We must guard them! We can do this with mindfulness, being cautious about what we put into our bodies, getting our bodies moving and regularly exercising, taking time to explore new things through travel, and engaging in one or more hobbies that we love!
Share with us ways you practice mindfulness, or any new method you plan to explore!