May is Mental Health Awareness Month. According to mentalhealthamerica.net, “1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.” We’ve found a few ways for you to take care of yourself year round…

Eat well: Bulking up on fruits and veggies can help increase your energy levels. Mental Health America states “People who follow this kind of diet are up to 30% less likely to develop depression than people who eat lots of meat and dairy.” Time to hit up the farmer’s market.

Exercise: Release stress and boost endorphins by working out. Summer is almost here, get outside and get moving. There’s nothing like some fresh air to keep you motivated and provide you with a change of scenery. You can improve your mood, reduce anxiety and even loose a few lbs by tying up your snazzy sneakers (or getting some new ones for motivation) and hit the ground running.

Everybody dance now!: Let off some steam, pump up the jams and dance around your home. Think of this as a 2 for 1: Dancing and listening to music can better your mood and your body image.

Unplug: Here at TLD, our staff is very familiar with needing to take time to unplug. In today’s world we are all so connected to our electronic devices whether we’re binging on Netflix or scrolling through Facebook. Find alternative activities either in or out of the house to fill your time in a positive way. Read a book, hang out with friends, or check out the new coffee shop down the street. Disconnect with your devices in order to connect face-to-face with the people in your life.

OM is where the heart is: Meditation can be one of the greatest ways to relieve stress, anxiety and give yourself an amazing stretch and workout. Take time during your morning routine or before you go to bed to engage in some breathing exercises. Vinyasa can help you get out of bed with this 15 minute yoga routine.

LOL: You heard me…Laugh Out Loud! Call up a friend, watch a funny video, or let your pet entertain you. I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but laughing has many health benefits including decreasing stress and improving your mood. If you’re having trouble finding something funny, check out this video for some inspiration.

Mirror, mirror on the wall: It is so easy for us to focus on the negative rather than the positive. Many people who study mental health mention the benefits of looking in the mirror daily and saying 10 things about themselves that they are grateful for out loud. If this seems strange at first, try keeping a journal and jotting them down. Remind yourself of all that you have to offer and why you are important.

Declutter: It’s not just us – research shows that clutter can lead to stress and lack of productivity. Taking the time to organize your things will not only make your space look better, but it will also make you feel better and more motivated to be productive and feel at ease.

There are so many ways to adjust your lifestyle so you can be your best self. If you are ever looking for extra support, never hesitate to contact a therapist or licensed mental health counselor for help. Search for daily affirmations, or write down one that really speaks to you and place it somewhere where you can read it everyday as a reminder of how important you are. Love yourself and be kind to others always.