Since the events of 2020 a lot of us have become well seasoned working from home . Still – I’d like to relay some of the things-I do-as a work from home mom-to stay positive and maintain good mental health hygiene.
- This first one -I’ve heard all my life. Get dressed for the day. Even if I’m not planning on leaving the house nor engaging with anyone other than my son, George-for that day – I’d still like to show up dressed and combed for …my life. Albeit – indoors.
2. Make the bed. Shake off yesterdays debris and you’ll most certainly feel better.
3. Sitting down for meals. Since George and I consistently have meals together – it’s easy to keep to sitting and enjoying three nourishing , simple meals a day. It gives structure to our day and- we certainly feel better after having done so. Though, diet- does go hand in hand with how we feel. Less ingredients the better. And – if you can’t pronounce it- toss it
4. In a previous post I relayed my shingles experience and how that ultimately-led to meeting with a therapist via telehealth. Whenever I’ve recommended this – like; to my mother for example – she instinctively assumes that Im suggesting something is “wrong”with her. I don’t think there necessarily has to be a problem to speak to someone.
A good friend of mine relayed her positive experience with a therapist and I decided just to try it. Granted- pain is a good motivator and was prompted to action fresh after shingles.
I remember reading a study once-concerning the benefits of confession. A correlation was made between the low incidences of heart failure of an area with consistent attendance of confession.
I attempted to find this study but -instead, found countless articles touting the benefits of sharing openly and honestly with another human being. How it reduces stress and-as one article stated-allows us to come to terms with our behavior which- in turn, gives our life continuity.
It’s taken some time -but, I’ve started to see just how impactful my sessions have been . Despite inherently always knowing the benefits – the actual experience shifts our way of seeing in ways we weren’t capable of imagining prior to the shift. Though – having a therapist that is right for you -is -key. That’s where the next suggestion comes in .
5. When I use the word prayer some people may get a little squirrelly or uncomfortable but – I use prayer as sincere intention sent outward. I often like to pray for guidance . Then wait-and , listen . In my experience , I’ve received direction 100 percent of the time. One can argue about the mechanics of it all or -just have a little faith .
6. I have yet to master the crib transfer – meaning , when I attempt to transfer George to his crib from my lap – for nap time- he wakes up. This adds up to us being together- all day -with exception of my shower time.
So , how do we include exercise on this list ? I’ve found that both George and I enjoy to be outside. I walk and he lays back in the stroller or -I use the carrier to go for a hike. In addition to this-consistently doing just 10 push-ups a day. You’d be surprised by the physical results over time but – also , of the immediate effects of relieving stress and anxiety .
7. staying connected. We live apart from family and since the time that George was just a few months old – we’ve done a daily video call with relatives down south . We could all benefit from having some form of community in our lives.
Whether it be family , friends or – there are many groups that have moved to meeting- mostly, online. From 12 step groups to new moms groups – there’s seemingly – a place for everyone.
8. Which brings us to the next recommendation. In 2020 alcohol consumption in the U.S. went up by at least 20 percent. From March to September 2020, there were 41.9 billion dollars in liquor store sales (according to. Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health researchers) . That is to say that many Americans consume alcohol daily.
Our bodies -minds are always striving for homeostasis . Each time we get intoxicated -our body , mind – and, dare I say-spirit – clamors to restore balance . Imagine- instead – we continuously build up health – sanity, and – as a byproduct -positivity.
With just 30 days of abstinence one will be able to experience a drastic difference . And – If continued – the benefits will only grow exponentially. It may take a little faith to bridge the gap to feeling better and -with that -a desire to do better -for oneself and then , others .
9. Meditation. Committing to any length of time – say, even just 15-20 minutes a day and remaining consistent with a practice – one will start to see tangible results . A good starting point would be to focus on the breath -doing nothing other than observing. If this sounds a little daunting – find a guided meditation through insight timer or – even on, YouTube.
One of the greatest gifts I’ve received has been the practice of vipassana meditation. Throughout my years of practice I’ve noticed how its helped soften my judgments – reactions and -shape a world view that’s not even remotely close to the entrenched cynicism I use to live in.
Most importantly it’s allowed me to have greater reign over negative thoughts. After all – thoughts comprise our outlook – which, ultimately determines our attitude.
10. Lastly – supplementation. I am now a big proponent for vitamin D – especially during the winter months. Vitamin D deficiency in the U.S is thought to be pretty common. Published research estimating it to be at-least, 42 percent of the population lacks sufficient levels of vitamin D.
When I began supplementing with D-within days – I was feeling more positive , less tense and the world was – just , colored differently. I didn’t just see the grey outside but – a little more nuance to it all. In other words – it makes a huge difference.
Though, Vitamin D can’t be metabolized without having sufficient magnesium levels within your system. Its estimated that up to 50 percent of the US population is magnesium deficient. (According to sciencedaily.com).
I have heard that the most absorbable form of magnesium is through a topical application – as opposed to , a pill. Each night- after a shower – I apply a few drops along some with lotion onto my feet. Having the appropriate magnesium levels will also contribute to better sleep. (Below are both the Vitamin D and magnesium that I use )
After years of suffering from depression and seeking help through the use of pills , tonics and anything else one could imagine – I have found that the simplest measures are truly – the most effective. I hope something here may be of use to you .
- Vitamin D – Triquetra plant D3
- karma Rub – liquid magnesium oil
