Breaking a World Record and practicing mindfulness

 

Hey Guys!

 

So as I’m sure you know,  this week was Mental Health Awareness Week (8^th-14^th May) and for 2017 the theme is ‘Surviving or Thriving’. This year we are focusing on why not enough people are thriving with good mental health. 

 

 

The company I work for held an event at the NEC in Birmingham on Wednesday to break a World record in support of Mental Health Awareness. We successfully managed to create a birds-eye view of a giant mouth made up of people, symbolising speaking out for mental health. The previous record was held in Belgium with a number of 301 and we managed to beat the record with a total figure of 363! There was also a talk from Rugby legend Ollie Phillips, who spoke about his own personal struggles and how he has managed to overcome them, with the help of speaking to people. 

Which brings me on to my next little chit chat. At some point in our lives, many of us will have felt low and unsure of what to do or how to handle the situation. Now even though I'm far from an expert, here are 5 tips I find useful to keep a healthy mind and even if it helps someone out there have a better day I've made a difference. 

1. Speak to people

Whether it be friends, family or someone neutral in your life, just having somebody there to release those thoughts to can open up a sense of release. Getting things off your chest is a must from time to time and I know always makes me feel so much better. When you share the thoughts with another person your mind feels less heavy. Trust me it works! 

2. Be aware of your thoughts 

 

When you can recognise a negative, impulsive thought from a positive one, you then can choose to simply let it pass by and not act on it or allow it to turn your thought process. Sometimes easier said than done but think about as though you're almost catagorising your thoughts in your mind into a negative pot and a positive pot. 

 

3. Practicing gratitude 

I try to remind myself every day something that I am greatful for. Whether it be a favourite flower in the garden, a cuddle with my cat or a person that you're happy is part of your life. Practicing gratitude and reminding myself of the little things that make me smile is important. My little Gratitude journal I was kindly sent by Kiki K ensures I think about what I'm thankful for each day. 

4. Do what makes you happy 

Going shopping, putting together photos for a new blog post and sitting down with a nice film are all an example of things that make me smile. Remember the last time you felt really carefree and had a good day, try to recreate what you did. My new favourite candle from Bath & Body Works puts a little smile on my face! 

 

 5. Care less about what other people think 

If something makes you happy and you aren't hurting other people or yourself it can only be a good thing. Sometimes being selfish and putting you first is necessary. When we stop trying to please everyone around us we learn how to be happy ourselves.