4 Ways to Strengthen Your Mental Health Today | Newport Medical and Wellness

4 Ways to Strengthen Your Mental Health Today

August 18, 2020

in Lifestyle, Medical & Wellness

Mental health is a hot topic lately, and it’s easy to see why. Many people are struggling to feel happy and fulfilled in a time when social distancing and mask-wearing can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. Here are five ways to develop mental strength so you can make it through this challenging time.

  1. Practice Daily Affirmations

Did you know the words you speak—both verbally and internally—have a huge impact on the way you feel about yourself? Words are more powerful than you realize, and when spoken frequently enough, help to shape your reality. When developing mental strength, it’s essential to practice daily affirmations to encourage yourself. If possible, recite positive and motivating phrases to yourself in the mirror each morning. You can say things like “I have the mental strength to create a great day for myself,” or “I am strong and capable.” Choose a phrase that motivates you to be strong and happy, then repeat it often.

  1. Eat Brain-Healthy Foods

You’re most likely aware that some foods are better for your body than others, but did you know there are certain foods that can boost your mental strength and function? The brain needs very specific nutrients to function optimally. Here are a few of the top foods you should consume if you want to develop good mental strength.

  • Oily fish. Oily fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help build the membranes around brain cells and improve the structure of neurons. They help to boost overall brain function and improve thinking abilities.
  • Blueberries, raspberries and other berries help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Research shows that the antioxidants within berries are good for brain health.
  • Dark chocolate. Cacao, which is contained in dark chocolate, shows great promise for slowing down age-related brain diseases and cognitive decline. As if you needed another excuse to eat chocolate, right?
  • Whole grains. Your brain requires plenty of vitamin E to perform at its best. Whole grains tend to have a lot of vitamin E, especially brown rice, oatmeal, barley and bulgur wheat.

If you’re having trouble getting enough brain-healthy nutrition into your diet, Newport Medical and Wellness Center may be able to help. We offer healthy meal replacement options that can help you get the nutrition your body and mind need.

  1. Develop a Mindset of Gratitude

When you’re grateful, you’re less likely to become depressed or angry about your life. Gratitude is one of the most revealing indications of good mental strength. To foster gratitude, begin and end each day by focusing on what you’re most grateful for in your life.

  1. Meditate

If you’ve never tried meditation before, now is a good time to start. Meditation can help you learn how to handle negative emotions in healthy ways. New research even shows that meditation exercises could help soldiers boost their mental toughness in preparation for war. If it can help them, it can certainly help you fight your daily battles.

Mental strength should get just as much attention as physical strength. If you’re ready to improve your mental strength, try incorporating these four practices into your daily life, starting today.

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