October 10 is World Mental Health Day
While many people have a physical fitness program, my friend, Jay Lamont, Partner at L2 Health Management, reminds us of the importance of having a mental fitness program. At some point in our lives, we will face a crisis, a loss, or a tragedy. What are we doing to prepare ourselves? How do we get “mentally fit” so we can face reality with greater courage and compassion?
Here are the five pillars of my own mental fitness program. I’ve developed these over many years of having to face depression and anxiety. I’ve learned that self-care isn’t always comfortable, and self-sacrifice is different that self-development. In order to be there for others, our first responsibility is to be there for ourselves.
- Daily Quiet Time – A time each morning for meditation and prayer to connect with my inner voice and strengthen me spiritually, so I can do my best to remain mindful, present, and centred throughout the day.
- Community – Confidants with whom I can share what’s going on inside me in order to sustain self-awareness, support, and accountability to live in alignment with my values.
- Exercise – Daily, non-harming training increases my strength, endurance, stability, and mobility.
- Nutrition – Careful attention to what I eat; knowing my unique constitution: what sustains me and what depletes me.
- Purpose and Contribution – A cause that gets me out of bed in the morning and inspires me to make a difference in the world.
I hope this might inspire you to develop and maintain a mental fitness program that is right for you.
