5 weekly routines to help with a healthy mindset

It’s the day after the long weekend and I thought the timing was perfect for this post. As many come back from that long weekend and try to hang on to that relaxing mode, it’s important to acknowledge how necessary it is to put focus on a healthy mindset. 

Over the last couple months I have made a conscious effort to make a healthy mindset a priority in my life. I had got so caught up in the everyday grind that I had forgotten one of the most important areas that needs to be a focus - myself. 

It started with 15 min walks at an indoor track, then expanded into a series of positive activities I have now incorporated into my weekly routine. Once I started crafting what this looks like for me, I noticed an increase not only in mood but positive focus. An ability to think with clarity and to be better equipped to learn and focus. 

So with that in mind, I wanted to share these important elements of my weekly routine in hopes that may help you. 

• Go for a walk (especially in nature): Walking is proven to clear your head, improve mood, boost energy, and support mental health. I walk for 30 mins 4-5 times a week and it’s the first activity I do in the day, even before coffee. Not only are the physical benefits there but it creates space to think and plan out your day.  

• Practice mindfulness or meditation: There are several ways to go about this such as a meditation app like Calm but you can also simply take time to do a breathing exercise on your living floor or sit in quietness for 15 mins like I do. The idea is to focus on the present moment to reduce stress and increase emotional awareness.

• Get outside: This can be in the form of a walk or even just sitting on a bench, in your backyard or patio. This allowed me to take in my surroundings and enjoy the fresh air. Being in nature helps regulate the body's stress response, allowing you to feel calmer. I tend to mix it up, trying new trails and parks when I can.   

• Take time to play: As we become adults we lose the idea of play. Just taking time to have fun, smile, laugh and be in the moment. Having a young son, this was easier for me as I will take time where I can to play with dinosaurs, build something with Legos or go to a playground. I found this to be a great way to not only connect with my son more but just remember what it was like to be a kid again and be in the moment. 

• Connect and re-connect: I have been having a ton of coffee chats, connecting with old friends over lunch or giving people a call (yes people still talk on the phone). Having an opportunity to connect with people is great for so many reasons. It allows you to learn new things, get different perspectives, talk through your challenges or have a welcome distraction. 

So with that in mind, take some time to pause, time to play and time to focus on a healthy mindset. It’s one of the most important items on your to-do list this week.