Find comfort in your life. Explore places until you find somewhere that automatically takes the edge off your stress level. This could be a park, your garden, bookstore, restaurant, favorite coffee house, etc. It doesn’t matter where it is located all that matters is that the environment is comforting and relaxing to you. Visit this place as frequently as possible, pencil it into your schedule if needed.

Learn to set boundaries with other people including friends, parents, family professional contacts and co-workers. Overextending your time and mental/emotional capacity is not doing anyone any favors. You only have so many hours in the day; you must reserve time and space for yourself. Even if during this personal time, you are doing nothing but recharging.

There continues to be more research about the therapeutic value of being in nature. 20-30 minutes a day outside can enhance your mood and lead to a reduction of stress. Being outdoors increases your inclination to be mindful by focusing on the sound of birds, smell of flowers, scenery of gardens, etc.

The average person has between 60,000 and 80,000 thoughts a day. Not every single one of these thoughts is accurate, rational, helpful, logical, true and productive. Thoughts can be free flowing where you allow your brain to have the reins over the thought patterns or you can guide the thought patterns and direct them consciously.

Emotions are not logical. Emotions do not control your behavior. For example, your can feel nervous and dreadful about giving a presentation in front of others but continue on and deliver the presentation anyway. Think of it as you are sky and your emotions are the weather.

Be yourself. Speak your truth. Set boundaries and chase your dreams unapologetically. Say what needs to be said in a manner that others can hear it.

It is difficult to remember that everyone is fighting their own life battle. Not every interaction you experience with another human is about you. Harsh tones, over reactions, irritability and awkward glances are symptoms of discontent.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” ―Maya Angelou

It is easy to become consumed with the day to day activities of life. We give pieces of ourselves to others throughout the day as we care take our children, spouses, careers, friends, family, homes and pets. Let’s face it, adulting can be exhausting. We need to create calm for ourselves whenever we can. In the hustle and bustle, it is not easy to pencil in time for ourselves however, it is imperative to create pockets of peace for yourself during the day.

Your brain needs oxygen to function, think and calm down. When you are stressed, you have a tendency to hold your breathe; it is a natural reaction. Learn to focus on your breathing when you feel emotionally flooded to slow your body down and clear your mind.

Treat yourself as you would a close friend or beloved family member. Your relationship with yourself is one of the most important connections you will ever have. The words you speak as well as the beliefs you hold about yourself can give you strength and reassurance or they can erode your self esteem.

Staying aware of your own needs and feelings is essential to your mental and emotional health. Vent stress as it begins to percolate. Little, small stress relievers throughout the day are more effective than a big emotional explosion once a week. Think of shaking a bottle of soda, then slowly unscrewing. Recognizing all your emotions is a first step in managing them. Know your limits and be unashamed about setting boundaries. Saying “no” is a skill we all need for self perseverance.

Health centers around balance. Mental health is no exception. Be deliberate about how you spend your time; it is an incredibly valuable resource that none of us are getting any more of. Maintain balance between your normal responsibilities and the things you enjoy. Work and play are equally important. Incorporate what you love into your daily routine so you have something to look forward to each day.