Phone calls and social networks have their place, but few things can beat the stress-busting, mood-boosting power of quality face-to-face time with other people, especially those you love and people who energize you.
Staying active is as good for the brain as it is for the body, regular exercise or activity can have a major impact on your mental and emotional health, relieve stress, improve memory, and help you sleep better.
Talk to a friendly face, if you have concerns, stresses, or worries, sharing these with someone who cares is one of the most effective ways to calm your nervous system and relieve stress.
Does listening to an uplifting song make you feel calm? Does squeezing a stress ball help you feel centered? What about taking a walk in nature and enjoying the sights and sounds of the trees? Everyone responds to sensory input a little differently, so experiment to find what works best for you.
Yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce overall levels of stress.
We can all be guilty of being "too busy" to take some downtime, but leisure time is a necessity for emotional and mental health, take some time to relax, contemplate, and pay attention to the positive things as you go about your day even the small things.
Foods that can support your mood include fatty fish rich in omega-3s, nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews, and peanuts), avocados, beans, leafy greens (spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts), and fresh fruit such as blueberries.