It is so important to “mind your mind”. We place so much emphasis on physical health but mental health is just as important, if not more important. When we are feeling mentally “well” we can better manage day to day activities as well as relationships and responsibilities in a much better way. Minding your mind should be a daily priority for each and every one of us.

Self care is really important when it comes to minding your mind. It ensures that there is always some kind of focus on your own well-being. It forces us to check in with ourselves and communicate with ourselves in a caring way.

Finding time for self care may feel a little difficult at first. With so many responsibilities at home and in work it can seem like we just don’t have the time. We can’t afford to give up precious time that should be spent ticking things off our growing to-do list. I am here to try to help you see that the to-do list will always be there. Responsibilities will always be there. Day to day life stress will always be there. Your mental health should always be the most important thing though. It should be top of the list and in turn it will help you work through that list much more effectively.

Here are some self care tips to help you mind your mind

1. Ensure that you are getting a good night’s sleep every night. Social media and that TV box set you are watching will always be more appealing but a good night’s sleep is so very important. Decide on a bed-time and stick to it. It will make a huge difference to you the next day. It will be easier to rise, function and enjoy the day regardless of what you have lined up.

2. Are you getting enough fresh air? Even opting to hang the clothes outside (weather permitting) rather than on the clothes horse gives you an opportunity for ten minutes of fresh air. You might consider walking to the shop for milk rather than driving. All of these pockets of fresh air add up and really contribute to your overall well-being.

3. Treat yourself as often as possible. A nice bath bomb, your favourite bar of chocolate or a new book can really lift your mood. You would always find a way, or the money, if someone you loved needed it.

4. If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed speak up. Simply saying the words out loud to someone who cares about you can lighten the load immediately. You might be surprised by who can help you or give advice, but only if they know that you are struggling.

5. Goal setting and to-do lists are great but only if they are realistic. Making impossible goals may add to your feeling of stress and disappointment if you find yourself constantly falling short of them. Try to make your goals appropriate so that you can enjoy ticking them off the list and the feeling of satisfaction when they are complete. It will motivate you in all the right ways.

6. Balance is key. Too much work and you resent the lack of play. Too much play and it adds to work stress and anxiety. Try to find a balance that is realistic for you.

7. Spend as much time as possible with people who lift your spirits and empower you. There are so many people who may drain you and leave you feeling more negative and this can really impact your daily happiness.

8. If you notice anxiety or stress creeping up on you try to address it immediately. Take a breather, get some fresh air, make a nice cuppa or put on some kind of uplifting music or podcast. Changing the direction of your thoughts often requires distraction.

Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.