Mental Self Care

Danielle rolled her eyes.  “I was playing with a train set at home with my 4-year-old son, and we were going on twenty minutes of circling the same track and having the same dialogue between our train cars.  My mind was going numb. I hate to admit it, but my part-time job is what keeps me sane some days!”

 

Sometimes our day-to-day activities, especially if you’re caring for kids or an aging parent, aren’t exactly mentally stimulating.  It’s important to find ways to keep our minds growing and engaged, as well as using skills and abilities that God has given us.

 

Many of my clients, as well as myself, have found working or volunteering outside the home to be part of our mental self care plan.  Although it’s taken awhile to find the right work-family balance, I enjoy meeting with counseling clients a couple days a week and using the training and skills that I have to help others. Paid work doesn’t have to be the type of outlet you choose, but developing your mind will help you be more engaged in all areas of life.  

 

Technology also affects us mentally.  Consider the amount of time you’re spending in front of your phone, tablet, TV, and computer each day.  Do you find yourself losing track of time as you scroll on Facebook, or are you watching mindless Netflix shows?  Be intentional with your technology usage so it doesn’t suck your time or dull you mentally.

 

Are you looking for practical ideas for improving mental self care in your life?  I have a whole list of ideas in my ebook.  I also provide this ebook as a free resource for new clients.