Mental health month tips from Inward Office. In our experience these are techniques that need regular practice and are not one time bandaid approaches to mental health. We believe that we each have highs and lows in our mental wellbeing, and to maintain equilibrium we need regular practices that attend to this part of our being.

1. Try Meditation

Ways to share with your organization: On our live virtual schedule Wednesdays from 12-12:30pm and Saturdays 9:30-10am

Schedule your own one time workshop introducing Meditation. Did you know there are MANY ways to practice?

Big take away from the practice: Meditation can manage the 10,000 daily thoughts you have! We teach that thoughts are one source of information, possibly passing sensations and meditation teaches us to observe thoughts without automatically acting on them.

A blog post on Meditation app vs. attending a live class: http://www.inwardoffice.com/meditation-live-or-app

2.  Yoga for Anxiety & Stress

How this is different from another yoga class: In this class our instructor teaches nervous system regulation. How do we go a little deeper in our practice to understand the inner mechanisms of stress that we each feel. There is no one-size fits all approach, but with reflection questions, movement, and kind, open attention, we may learn how to manage our anxiety & stresses moment-to-moment.

Ways to share with your organization: Schedule a one time workshop or join our Fall series for organizations. Let us know now you are interested so we can send you information as soon as it’s ready.

5 minute video technique: https://player.vimeo.com/video/678305554

3.  Exercise with a friend

Personally, exercise is always my first choice for managing my mind. With a companion, we expand our social connection. Our nervous system has a need for nurturing that sometimes we overlook. The feeling of connection that we foster through friendships and community can help us feel safe and at ease.

Personally, if that mental/physical tension is present after a vigorous outdoor walk, strength training class, or cardio blast, then I know it’s something to pay attention to. 

Lastly, doing exercise with a friend can lead to an accountability partner.

4.  My personal tools

What has worked in the past? What can you depend on to clear the slate or hit reset? My personal tools include playing harmonium (a small Indian organ-like instrument), listening to music, and calling a friend.

I’d love to hear your go-to mental health coping strategy. We need a tool belt of techniques to manage the ups and downs of life. Have a few that are tried and true and then new and different ones when those aren’t cutting it.