I am sorry I haven’t posted lately. I drafted several travel related posts, but I just have not had the energy to complete them over the last few weeks. However I am currently reading a book that suggests one action a day to maintain your mental health. Todays was creativity and I do enjoy writing. The truth is, I am not doing very well mentally at the moment, and I am hoping writing about things I am doing to keep myself sane would be helpful to some of my readers.

One of my favorite aspects of this blog is that a good chunk of my readers are former students of mine. Frequently people ask if I miss teaching, and I usually say no because I am still in touch with so many students of mine. Most are in their 20s now (🤢) and are living their lives which I love to see. This post is for them and for other readers who may be struggling with their mental health. Keeping yourself busy while struggling with mental health is no easy task as a part of your brain will remind you that sulking is a better option but try. Try to get outside, paint a picture, read a book or go for a walk. Try something. I hope none of you are experiencing any mental health struggles, but if you are, this is what I am doing.

Working Out

Over the last many years I have become quiet the workout junky. I went from hating lifting, to tolerating it, to now being the highlight of my day. If weight lifting isn’t for you, do some cardio, go for a walk, a swim or a bike ride. Sports are in play too, tennis, golf, whatever! Sweating is quite therapeutic.

Cooking

This one has been challenging for me lately. Yet I have committed to cooking once a week because once I get started, I do love it. Creating a dish for me to enjoy always gives me a smile. This week I am going to cook for my Synagogue’s Shabat Friday potluck dinner!

Walk Somewhere Quiet and Pretty

I am spoiled with this one as most of Maine is quiet and pretty but it is a terrific way to decompress and spend some time in nature. If you live in Houston, Terry Hershey Park is a wonderful option.  In Maine I typically go to the beach or walk around the woods in my neighborhood.

Therapy

I currently speak to a therapist and participate in group therapy and I am not ashamed of it. In fact, I wish I started sooner as those conversations are highlights of my week. One tip, you might need to do some therapist shopping as not all are created equal and some specialize in issues more related to your experiences than others. If money is an issue and you have insurance, check out Sondermind as you can filter based on the kind of health insurance the practitioner taskes.

Take a Pause

Part of my problem is everything in my mind is urgent. I have been working on slowing down whether through meditation, a quick walk with the dogs or breathing exercises.

Religion

I found God! Eh not really but I started attending synagogue for the first time in many years and I am enjoying the traditions and community it brings. While I am not sure anyone is listening when I pray, it feels good and maybe they are?

Targeted Friends and Family

Friends and family are great…until they aren’t lol. Not everyone in our lives is cut out to be the ‘go to’ people when we are struggling with our mental health. However, others are a godsend and my friends and family who I have been talking to are just that. And the ones who are not…well talk sports or something fun with them to give your brain some stimulation.

This list is not meant to be all encompassing, but what I do while not in the best place. I hope none of my readers are facing similar challenges, but life happens, and I hope this is helpful. Feel free to reach out if anyone needs to talk.

One day at a time,

Andrew