May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and if this past year has done anything, it's definitely made me aware of my mental health! Working from home has been a challenge...I've never spent this much time with myself in my life! Throw in the navigation of remote school, the uncertainty of what we can do & where we can go, and the worry about my friends & family's health - let's just say "It's been a lot."
Today's world has moments that make everyone question their own sanity...yes, everyone!! And it's ok to not feel ok all of the time. You have to take care of you. You don't have to always be the strong one and take on every job, errand, conflict and responsibility. Sometimes, all you need to do is give yourself a break to instantly put yourself back into your "good place"! So here you have it, this week's 5 Things...
5 Ways To Take A Mini-Break To Relieve Some Mental Stress
1. Walk It Out
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Sometimes, all you need to do is get up from your chair and take a little 10 minute stroll! You can walk around your house, your office, or your yard, but be sure to put the phone on silent and take in the scenery. Notice your neighbors new shutters, take in the various drink options in the break room, or pat yourself on the back for your sweet decorating skills. Looking at anything else besides work can give your brain the quick refresh it's in desperate need of.
2. Hey Rover, Come On Over
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So yeah, working from home has put you and your pet in very close company, but are you so wrapped up in your work that you might as well be somewhere else? Turn away from that screen and give your dog or cat some much-needed attention! Throw the ball with your dog, play laser tag with your cat, or have a conversation with your parakeet! Any time spent with a loving pet, no matter how short, is a guaranteed mood-booster. How can you not love that face???
3. Lights Out, Uh Huh!
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Shut off your screens, shut off the lights, and just chillllllllllllllllll. I know that personally, I hate fluorescent lighting. Sitting under those harsh lights all day put an edge on my mood (not to mention that they are sooooo unflattering). That's why I like to take a few minutes, close the office door, and turn everything off. Sit in the calm darkness and recharge!! Just don't sit there too long or your mini-break might turn into a power nap!
4. A Change Will Do You Good
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I'm so guilty of working through lunch at my desk. Just shove that food in and keep on going! But sometimes, just taking your food anywhere else can give your brain a break and help you feel not only full, but full of life when lunch is over. If you're working from home: eat out on the back deck, have a little picnic in the yard, or munch at the kitchen table (hey, it's not your desk!). If you're at the office: find a bench nearby, use that chair from your trunk to watch traffic go by in the parking lot, or even post up in the conference room. Any option that gives you a break from your desk is a good one!
5. Staycation, All I Ever Wanted
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If you're really feeling the strain and just not like yourself, use a vacation day to do nothing. Let me say that louder for the people in the back...USE A VACATION DAY TO DO NOTHING! It seems crazy - vacations days are for vacations, right? No. PTO means "paid time off" to do what YOU want. So do it! Take a day when the kids are at school, your spouse is at work, and just do you. No cleaning, no rushing, no worrying. Listen to music, get a tan, take 20 naps, paint your nails, bingewatch Schitt's Creek. Anything goes...it's your day!
These are some of my favorite mini-break ideas that really help me recharge and refocus when I'm just not feeling like "me". They're easy, don't cost a thing, and best of all, they work. Taking care of our own mental health is the best thing we can do for ourselves, and everyone around us will appreciate it, too! Now go snuggle that puppy dog...
Got some great mini-break ideas to share? Hit me up on Facebook or Instagram!
