In our daily life, we are so busy with meetings, deadlines, workouts, meals and our favorite shows that we often forget to think for our own self. Do you remember when was the last time you made time for yourself and your mental health?
Just like brushing your teeth keeps your mouth clean, caring for your mental health every day keeps your mind strong, calm, and clear. A good mental health routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming. Even simple habits, when done regularly, can make a big difference.
Let’s look at easy ways to create a mental health routine that suits your daily life and makes you feel more calm, clear, and in control.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. It also affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood. Just like physical health, taking care of our mental well-being helps us live a more balanced, fulfilling, and happy life.
Why Do You Need a Mental Health Routine?
Mental health affects how you feel, think, act, and handle stress. If we ignore it, we may start feeling anxious, sad, tired, or even physically unwell.
Think of your mind like a mobile phone. If you don’t charge it regularly, it shuts down. Similarly, if you don’t take care of your mental health, you may feel drained. A daily routine can act like a “charging cable” for your mind.
What to Include in Your Mental Health Routine
Here are some simple yet powerful habits you can include in your routine:
Connect with Someone Daily
Talking to someone you trust, a friend, family member, or therapist, helps you feel supported. Even a short conversation can lift your mood.
Remember: You don’t have to go through things alone.
Start Your Day with a Mind Check-In
Before you scroll through your phone, take 2 minutes to check in with yourself. Ask:
• How do I feel today?
• What’s one thing I need?
• What’s one thing I’m grateful for?
This small step sets a positive tone for the day.
Move Your Body
Physical activity isn’t just for fitness, it helps your brain too. A short walk, stretching, yoga, or even dancing in your room can boost your mood by releasing happy chemicals called endorphins.
Tip: Try moving your body for at least 15–20 minutes a day. It doesn’t have to be intense. Just stay consistent.
Journal or Do a Brain Dump
Write down your thoughts, feelings, or anything that’s bothering you. You can also write a “to-do” list or just scribble your thoughts.
Journaling helps you:
• Understand your emotions
• Reduce overthinking
• Feel more in control
Practice Mindfulness or Deep Breathing
Even 5 minutes of breathing deeply or sitting quietly can help calm your racing thoughts. Try this:
• Close your eyes
• Inhale slowly for 4 seconds
• Hold for 4 seconds
• Exhale for 4 seconds
• Repeat for 5 rounds
You’ll feel more relaxed and present.
Set Boundaries with Technology
Social media can sometimes make us feel anxious or low. Try to:
• Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning
• Take social media breaks during the day
• Keep your phone away during meals or before bedtime
Create “phone-free” times to protect your peace.
Get Enough Sleep
Good sleep is like medicine for the brain. Lack of sleep can increase stress, reduce focus, and affect your mood.
To sleep better:
• Keep a fixed sleep schedule
• Avoid screens an hour before bed
• Make your room quiet and comfortable
Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
How to Build a Routine That Works for You
Every person is different. What works for one may not work for another. Here’s how to create a routine that fits your life:
• Start small: Don’t add too many things at once. Begin with 1 or 2 habits.
• Be realistic: Choose habits that suit your schedule and energy.
• Make it flexible: It’s okay if some days look different. The goal is consistency, not perfection.
• Track your progress: Use a simple tracker or checklist to stay motivated.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Building habits takes time, and that’s okay.
Mistakes to Avoid
• Thinking self-care is selfish, it’s not. It’s necessary.
• Comparing your routine with others, your journey is unique.
• Skipping your routine when you feel low — that’s exactly when you need it the most.
A Simple Sample Routine You Can Try
Here’s a sample routine you can follow or adjust as per your needs:
Morning:
• 2-minute mind check-in
• 10-minute walk or stretching
• 5-minute breathing or journaling
Afternoon:
• Short break from screens
• Talk to a friend or listen to calming music
Evening:
• Gratitude journaling (write 3 good things)
• No screens 30 mins before bed
• Sleep on time
This entire routine takes less than an hour spread across the day and the results are worth it.
When to Get Help
Sometimes, even with routines, we might feel overwhelmed. That’s okay. It’s brave to ask for help.
At M2 ManglamPlus Medicity Hospital, mental health is taken seriously. The hospital has experienced psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists who offer guidance with compassion and care. Whether you’re feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, or just need someone to talk to, expert help is available.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your mental health isn’t a one-time task. It’s a journey and a daily one. Start small, stay kind to yourself, and build a routine that brings peace to your mind and balance to your life.
Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health. So make time for it because you matter.
If you or someone you know needs expert support, visit M2 ManglamPlus Medicity Hospital, home to some of the Best Psychiatrists In Jaipur, a trusted Multispeciality Hospital that cares not just for your body, but also for your mind.
