Relax, Relate, Release!

I remember when my therapist and I were trying to figure out certain things to help me get out of my "funk". It was then that I realized I truly had no hobbies, lol.

However, I learned what I could do to make myself feel better, even if it was just for a few days.

First thing to note is that your nutrition and diet could impact your mental health. If you aren't getting enough sleep, and eating healthy and nutritious foods, it could alter your mental health. For example, any of the five main MyPlate food groups are a good source of nutrition. This includes whole fruits, like apples, bananas, fruit juices and berries. Vegetables should be in different color, as in light, dark, red, orange and starchy or non-starch. Focus more on whole grains like oatmeal. Vary proteins like nuts, meats, and eggs. Lastly, use low-fat or fat-free dairy. This, along with drinking lots of water will not only help your body, but help your mental health. I mean don't take it from me. I only graduated with a degree in Nutrition.

Also, make a few lifestyle changes. Our body literally cannot function without sleep, so make sure you're getting the recommended amount of sleep a night. For me, I learned that meditation and working out frequently better my mental health and give me this relaxed state. When I work out, it's like an escape for me. I'm more calm, and I don't worry about whatever troubles I had before heading to the gym. Meditation also works hand in hand for my mental state. Meditation has also helped a bit of my personality changes in making me more calm and relaxed. I'm not as timid or quick to anger as I usually am. I feel like a man who just smoked a thousand blunts! Plus, these are things that are great for your body and health in every aspect.

Also, I had to learn to do things that I enjoyed. This was initially difficult for me because I was not really sure of what I enjoyed. I had to think of things I enjoyed doing when I was younger and when I did, it made me happy. A lot happier. Also, some people find joy in hanging out with others. As an introvert and a home-body this can be tiring. I understand what you guys are going though, trust me! But if you have one or two people you genuinely enjoy spending time with, then you should hang with them. Having friends and family with the biggest support system is the best!

Lastly, I strongly recommend everyone to go to therapy. Yes, there are quicker ways to break out of the funk, like medication. But, there is something therapy did for me that I can't explain. I was able to finally speak out on my emotions and figure out what helps me. Therapy is about finding yourself and about helping you figure yourself out and I love it.

Even if the funk goes away, it might still come back. And that's okay. At least now, I know what to do when it does, and hopefully you do, too.

Hope it helps,

Kay