Lately, it feels like the world is spinning off its access, everyone around us is going crazy, and everything is topsy turvy. Between working and schooling from home, an unstable economy, and an uncertain future, we are all stressed, anxious, and edgy.

Stress can exacerbate existing health problems, and create new ones. Whether you are worried about your mental or physical wellbeing, you need to learn a few ways to diminish stress and anxiety and preserve your general serenity.

Here are ten self care tips for mental health you can use when everything around you is going to pieces.

1. Meditate

Meditation has been trusted for thousands of years as a way to stay healthy in mind and body. It reduces anxiety and helps with sleep, depression, and chronic pain.

Clearing your mind and focusing on the present is a helpful tool that can be practiced anytime, anywhere.

2. Exercise

Get your endorphins going with a quick jog, swim, or Pilates class. Working up a sweat helps you look and feel your best. It has also been found to alleviate depression.

3. Take a Bath

Submerge yourself in a soothing bath. Arrange scented candles and aromatherapy around the room, turn on some gentle tunes, or indulge yourself with relaxing CBD bath bombs.

Getting away from it all and giving yourself a moment of self care is critical to maintaining good mental health.

4. Listen to Music

Music can transport you to another world. Whether it is the delicate strain of a classical symphony or the headbanging metal of your favorite band, it can help you release tension.

You may laugh, cry, or dance. You will feel less alone.

5. Garden

Gardening is found to have numerous positive effects on people’s states of mind. Being tactile in the dirt, producing living things, and watching them grow are all satisfying in an almost primal way.

Not only does gardening provide a sense of purpose, but it has actually been shown to help with Alzheimer’s and strengthening the immune system.

6. Play with Your Pet

Nothing puts a smile on one’s face more than throwing a ball around with a puppy or cuddling with a sleeping kitten. Even watching silly animal videos online can provide a sense of joy.

Pets give us someone else to worry about besides ourselves. They also keep us in the moment, focused on food, fun, and sleep. That’s a healthy way to live!

7. Eat Something Delicious

Poor mental health can lead to poor dietary habits, like overeating and junk food. However, if you have had a tough day- or week- and want a special reward, go ahead and have a piece of chocolate cake.

Self care does not mean depriving yourself!

9. Take a Nap

Often stress and anxiety hinder our ability to sleep. Ironically, the very antidote to stress can be getting a good night’s rest.

Try some blackout curtains or an eye mask. Remove all electronics from your bedroom, and open the window for a cool breeze. You may find that an extra hour or two a night will lead you to sweet dreams.

10. Laugh

Laughter truly is the best medicine. Sometimes all you need to do after a horrible day is to watch a dumb TV show, or get on the phone with your best friend and laugh until you cry.

The literal muscle work of creating a smile will actually make you feel happier, studies show!

Self Care Tips for Mental Health

You do not have to spend a fortune to maintain your mental and physical health. By following some of these self care tips for mental health, you will find yourself better equipped to handle the curveballs life throws at you.

For more tips on living your best life, keep checking back.