It’s a daily renewal of our mind that is just as important as our physical upkeep. You wouldn’t neglect your physical appearance, would you? Read for tips on how to take care of your precious mind.
The charity Mind has estimated that one in four people have a mental health condition each year. Mental health influencers like Lena Dunham, Stormzy, Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid have spoken out on the issue. High profile celebrities like Lady Gaga and Prince William are also creating a dialogue in the normalisation of the discussion of mental health. The two expressed the importance of letting people know they will not be judged via their video, which you can watch here:
Prince William, who visited Pall Mall Barbers this past February, opened up discussion with barbers who are trained in recognising signs of depression in their clients. They lend a listening ear and comfortable chair in the barbers studio for a safe talking environment. The prince has made it clear he’d like for his children to feel comfortable growing up talking about their feelings, and supports Heads Together, the initiative that began the hashtag #oktosay.
Ebony Ali is a delightful soul with a heart for helping others. The author, who wrote her first book while at university, says that she hopes to see people set free from mental and emotional stress:
“I’ve been writing since I was in primary school,” says Ali. “English was my favourite subject, especially creative writing. My favourite author growing up was JK Rowling—I loved how she could draw me into another reality.”
In her book Beauty for Ashes: An Exchange for Hope, Ali relates how she entered her final year of university, at 19, while suffering from a psychotic episode that ended with her admitted to a mental institution. Struggling from self-esteem as a result from childhood abuse, she opens up about overcoming her addictions.
An excerpt from her book reads: “Brave is the word I want to be written on my gravestone. After all, I shaved off my hair at 18, slept outside my university campus to raise money for the homeless, and volunteered in Central America for three months after I finished University. However, the words timid, quiet, and weak describe the way I’ve felt about myself for most of my life.”
One way in which Ali believes we can reach out to those suffering from loneliness or anxiety, is by pairing them up with other like-minded people. “This could be done through a survey,” Ali suggests. “Those with anxiety don’t tend to like being around large groups of people. If we offer mentorship, people can open up, and sessions like these could really help them express themselves, being given practical advice.”
This, along with encouraging support, is something which Ali believes will benefit anyone.
“We can reach out by encouraging others to do what they love. Sometimes I have writer’s block and I take a break and find time to do things I enjoy. I find inspiration in movies, watching my favourite TV shows…someone will say something and it can just really hit me. It’ll spark something inside and I’ll feel led to write about it.”
Ali also recommends taking time to write.
“Make notes on your phone,” she suggests. “It’s not about stressing yourself out, it’s about writing from a place of passion. Allow it to flow naturally because people reading it will feel that emotion, too,” says Ali. “And, I have to be honest with you – changing your view and scenery really helps when writing. My favourite spot is the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Southbank. That atmosphere is super motivating.”
It’s never been more important to understand that mental health is just as important as our physical health. Ensure you’re keeping your mind in check with these Top 5 tips:
1. Kick-start your brain with learning expert, keynote speaker and advisor, Jim Kwik. A mental health advocate, Kwik speaks on the importance of getting out of a rut with The Power of Patterns in a podcast with The Good Life here. Known as “the boy with the broken brain”, Kwik was unfairly teased as a boy because of a childhood head injury. He quickly tackled his challenges, set his mind on a new course, and has since met with dignitaries such as former First Lady Michelle Obama—another advocate for mental health, who brought awareness at the groundbreaking summit in Washington D.C.
It’s a daily renewal of our mind that is just as important as our physical upkeep. You wouldn’t neglect your physical appearance, would you? So don’t neglect your precious mind, either.
2. Artist Andy Leek is known for leaving colourful self-help notes throughout London. The artist, who collaborated with Diesel store on Carnaby street last year, leaves powerfully inspiring notes that you can visit for inspiration here: @notestostrangers.
3. Phones are known as a subtle cause for anxiety and stress, but can also be used to act against it. Using your phone as a wellness mechanism can support in improving mental health for a happier mind, so search for some positive podcasts. Try these mental foods for thought: Happy Not Perfect, JS Health, Shine, Aloe Bud, Wysa, Eve Thomas x Tru Luv, or Sanity & Self.
4. Need a good read? The Four Pillar Plan might be just the book for you. Doctor Chatterjee, author of The 4 Pillar Plan: Relax, Eat, Move and Sleep your way to a longer, healthier and happier life, explains how you’re able to create an actionable plan to feel fantastic.
5. Getting outdoors and getting your mind refreshed and going with movement is essential. Being active – even with a quick 5 minute walk around the block – has also been proven as a defining factor for overall wellness.
Taking time for yourself is vital, along with building a community, creating open conversations, and just talking to create a safe space for you, your mates, and the people around you. Don’t forget the most important thing is to take care of you.
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This post has originally been published by _shiftLondon.org, a University of the Arts London student news website.
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