Portfolio of Hope

Lisa Fouweather

Unique Strategies to Boost Mental Health: A Blend of Holistic Approaches

8 Nov 2023

In the high-speed, digitally connected world we live in, mental health often takes a back seat. However, maintaining good mental health is as crucial as our physical health for leading a balanced life. This article, courtesy of Portfolio of Hope, delves into the realm of unique and holistic strategies to boost mental health, combining both age-old traditions and modern practices…

Harmonise Your Environment with Feng Shui

Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of arranging living spaces, plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy mental state. The principle revolves around optimising the flow of energy, or “chi,” within your living environment. This flow can be enhanced by decluttering your home, keeping your workspace organised, and using soothing colours and decor. This harmonious arrangement reduces stress, brings about tranquillity and positively influences your mood and mindset.

Work from Home

When it comes to boosting your mental health, working from home offers a variety of benefits. First, it provides flexibility, allowing employees to create a comfortable work environment and tailor their schedules to their needs. This can lead to improved work-life balance and reduced commuting stress. Additionally, remote work often increases productivity as it minimises workplace distractions and fosters greater focus. It also reduces the environmental impact of commuting, saving both time and money. Furthermore, working from home can open up job opportunities for individuals who might have difficulty accessing traditional office settings due to physical disabilities or geographical constraints. Overall, remote work has proven to be a valuable and sustainable option for many in the modern workforce.

Aromatherapy to Soothe and Relax

Essential oils offer a range of benefits for mental wellness. When inhaled or applied topically, these natural plant extracts can have a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting relaxation. Scents like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known for their soothing properties, helping to improve sleep quality and alleviate emotional tension.

Additionally, certain essential oils, such as peppermint or citrus scents, can enhance focus and mental clarity, boosting cognitive function. Incorporating essential oils into daily routines, through aromatherapy or self-massage, can be a valuable tool in supporting mental well-being and fostering a more balanced and harmonious state of mind.

Tune Into Mental Relaxation: Soothing Music Therapy

Music has been a healing tool for centuries. It can influence our emotions, and therefore, our mental health. Classical, jazz, and ambient music, in particular, are known to provide emotional relief and induce relaxation. Remember that the most relaxing genre can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to explore and find the music that resonates best with your personal preferences and relaxation needs.

Tap Into Tai Chi or Yoga

Engaging in low impact activities such as Tai Chi or yoga can have profound benefits for mental well-being. These practices promote mindfulness, which allows individuals to focus on the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety. Through controlled breathing and gentle movements, these activities also encourage relaxation, calming the mind and promoting a sense of inner peace. Regular participation in Tai Chi or yoga can improve sleep patterns, enhance mood, and boost self-esteem, contributing to a more positive outlook on life.

Give Self-Compassion

Self-compassion- treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding that would be offered up to a friend facing challenges- is crucial for mental well-being. Embracing self-compassion means acknowledging and accepting one’s imperfections and mistakes without harsh self-judgement.

By practising self-compassion, individuals cultivate resilience, reduce anxiety, and build a healthier self-esteem. This nurturing attitude toward oneself fosters a sense of emotional safety and encourages a more positive mindset, ultimately leading to improved mental well-being and a greater capacity to cope with life’s ups and downs.

Walk Your Way to Better Mental Health

Consistently taking walks, preferably in pedestrian-friendly locations with high walkability, is an effective method to enhance your mental health. The act of walking goes beyond mere physical exertion, and you enjoy the added benefits of fresh air, sunlight, and engagement with diverse environments. This composite experience acts as a mood elevator and a natural remedy to alleviate stress and anxiety.

Engage in True Light Purification

True light purification is a holistic approach to mental wellness that centres around the belief that exposure to natural light can have transformative effects on the mind. By spending time in natural light, such as sunlight or using light therapy boxes, individuals can regulate their circadian rhythms, which in turn positively impacts mood, sleep patterns, and overall mental health. This practice is thought to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase energy levels, and promote a sense of well-being.

Volunteer or Start a Non-Profit

Volunteering offers numerous mental health benefits, extending even further when someone chooses to start their own non-profit. Engaging in volunteer work provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment, boosting self-esteem and confidence. The act of giving back and helping others can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, enhancing social connections and a sense of belonging.

By starting a non-profit, individuals have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their community, promoting a sense of accomplishment and purpose. This process also fosters leadership and organisational skills, providing a positive outlet for personal growth and self-discovery.

While strategies like medication and therapy are common, integrating holistic approaches like Feng Shui, aromatherapy, music therapy, working from home, daily walks, and true light purification can provide additional support to maintain and boost your mental health. As we embrace these practices, we can create an empowering mental health strategy that respects our unique needs and preferences, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.