Finding Calm in the Chaos: Simple Habits for Mental Well-Being

These past few months have been difficult and busy for me, but I’ve managed to stay afloat and keep seizing the day through a few simple habits. One of the most important habits I’ve kept to maintain my mental health and prevent spiraling is practicing gratitude.

Gratitude is the act of intentionally reflecting on things you appreciate, big or small. It could be something as simple as noticing a beautiful leaf, the time a friendly dog walked up to you, or something more abstract, like philosophy or time itself. There are infinite things to be grateful for. For me, journaling has been the best way to commit to this habit. It forces me to slow down and focus on the many things, people, and moments I appreciate.

Another practice that’s been essential for my mental health journey is meditation. It teaches you to slow down and sit in silence, something that’s the complete opposite of the hustle and bustle of daily life. This makes it the perfect practice for calming yourself and learning to be more present. I usually meditate by sitting on the floor, closing my eyes, and focusing on my breath. At first, it can be difficult, but patience is key, it gets easier over time. Start with 3 minutes, then work your way up to 5, 10, or more. The app I use is Medito, a completely free app that tracks your consistency, times your sessions, and offers guided meditations when your mind wanders.

Of course, there are other habits that support my mental health, like spending time with friends and family, working out, and staying focused on my goals. Continue being good to yourself and others. Keep improving your habits, take care of your mind, and stay safe.