SAY HI TO YOURSELF

Each day gives us an opportunity to start fresh, keep it simple and kiss goodbye to many stress causing thoughts. We barely realize that. We crave to share our woes with someone who can understand and maybe suggest ways out. It rarely happens that we find the right confidant. People are either too busy to listen or are caught up with their own stressful lives, even those that listen have an opinion of their own to tell us what to do or point out our mistakes making us feel worse .I think focusing on our inner self, loving it, also called self love is very important for a healthy state of mind and mental well being. Let each day start with positive thoughts, enjoy the little things that once you ignored. Say 'Hi' to yourself first before wishing another soul good morning. Do things that make you happy. Eat breakfast that you enjoy. A happy tummy releases dopamine along with endorphins which are some of the happy hormones. They elevate mood and promote positive feelings.

Any form of exercise releases stress and anxiety. Choose your own routine, walk or go to the gym. Do Yoga , Zumba or Pilates. If none of these work for you or you think you have no time in the morning, do deep breathing exercises for a few minutes. Start your day on the right note, avoid situations that trigger stress. If you have to face some no matter what, go easy on yourself. Try your best to not get caught up too much. Eat healthy lunch and dinner, if unable to do so at least do so 3-4 times a week. After work, watch your favorite movie or show, or listen to music, or pick up a hobby (no one is ever old to start one). Focus more on simple things that make you happy, easy to do. Paint or draw something, dance or play a game. Enjoy whatever you do. Before you realize stress will slowly evaporate. Take care of your health, see a doctor to rule out any health conditions or deficiencies that are effecting you. Put yourself first and see how miraculously you get good at your job and taking care of your loved ones. Serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins are happy hormones that promote pleasure, happiness and even love. They also work on your digestion and heart rate along with working on your mood and feelings. Smile, laugh out loud, smell fragrances of your choice, spend some time outdoors in the sunshine, feel good about yourself. No problem is big enough to hurt your mental health. If there is a problem, remember there is always a solution, sometimes we don’t know it. In those times talk to your partner or best friend or close family member to find ways to solve them. It always feels lighter when we talk about our feelings or problems to someone close. They may not be able to help much at times but at least you will feel like you are not alone.

Live life, love life and celebrate life like there is no tomorrow.

Sarvani Chamarti