Category: Self-Care

The popularity of tablets and smartphones continues to creep into groups of younger and younger kids. According to a study conducted in 2016, 52% of children under 8 years old had access to a mobile device. In 2018, this number increased to 75%.  Excessive screen time from such a young age can lead to poorer… Continue reading Cutting the Cord: A Technology-Free Summer

The number one thing people said last year when the world shut down due to COVID-19 was, “Thank goodness this happened in the spring when we can get outside.” They took to parks and trails to walk, run, bike and skate. Both bicycle and camper sales skyrocketed—so much, in fact, that many stores ran out… Continue reading How Getting Outdoors Can Improve Mental Health

You’ve probably uttered the words, “I really should” before rattling off a long to-do list. While it feels good to check off chores, that list can become never-ending. Whether it’s dishes, laundry, errands or other tasks, inevitably these chores come back around again, and after a few cycles, you can start to feel stressed out… Continue reading Summertime Self-Care

In this video, Amanda Pratt, LCSW / LMSW teaches us what coping is and how it can help you navigate the path toward better mental health.

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Just like you’d go for a run or eat veggies to keep your body healthy, you need to make intentional choices that improve and protect your mental well-being. Myth: Self-care is selfish Self-care isn’t the same as being selfish. You deserve to put your mental health… Continue reading What is Self-Care?

Sleep is an important step toward having better mental health. So how can you get more hours of better sleep? Build a consistent schedule Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends) helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Routines help your circadian rhythm stay… Continue reading 5 Ways to Get Better Sleep for Better Mental Health

We’ve always been told eight hours of sleep is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. During the night, your immune system receives a boost, your risk of heart disease decreases, and inflammation goes down. But the effects of getting enough rest extend far beyond the physical benefits. How sleep affects mental health According to… Continue reading Sleep’s Impact on Mental Health

Do you ever feel like you are hanging on by a fraying thread? Even on the best days, stress can sneak in and take over our lives. Having an arsenal of coping strategies at the ready is critical. A network of personalized resources and tools will help you stay positive in negative situations, boost your… Continue reading Coping with Everyday Stress

Anxiety can leave you feeling tight-chested and breathless. By utilizing these mindful breathing techniques, you can alleviate symptoms and begin to relax.  Abdomen breathing Breathing from your diaphragm allows your body to relax while still providing deep, cleansing breaths. Begin by sitting in a comfortable chair with your head, neck, and shoulders relaxed and your… Continue reading Deep Breath In, Anxiety Right Out

Emotional regulation is the practice of effectively managing and responding to emotional experiences. When big feelings bubble to the surface, music can help you express or overcome them. So if you’re feeling anxious or need a mood boost, try turning on some tunes and experiencing the following benefits of regulating emotions through music. Pleasurable feelings… Continue reading Emotional Regulation Through Music