While different forms of therapy require different timelines for treatment, it’s fair to say that most people aren’t meeting with their therapists on a daily cadence. Whether your regular appointments are weekly, biweekly, or follow another set schedule, it’s important to incorporate and maintain small daily practices that can support your progress in therapy and nurture your overall mental health.
According to Dr. Rachelle Scott, Director of Psychiatry at Eden Health, there are four ways we can try to improve our mood and supplement the work that’s done in therapy:
MOVEMENT
Work in some type of exercise for 10 to 15 minutes each day. Don’t worry — it doesn’t have to be strenuous. Walking and practicing yoga are both great, low-impact ways to move your body. Bonus: if you head outside to get your daily movement in, you’ll get the added benefits of Vitamin D.
Not in the mood to get up and move? Try and make it something you enjoy and have fun with it! Dancing to music is a great form of movement that we are more likely to do if we think it’s fun.
MASTERY
Learning a new skill can also help our mood by helping us to be more present in the moment and tuning out distractions. We tend to be more focused when learning a new skill, especially if it’s an activity that makes us feel good.
MINDFULNESS
Mindfulness doesn’t require hours of your time but is something that can be done even in 5-minute stretches of time. Mindfulness can play an important role in helping to regulate our emotions, stay more focused on tasks, and help bring us mental clarity.
MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
Any opportunity to connect with others — whether it be friends, coworkers, or family members — can help release oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, and help deter feelings of loneliness.
Everyone will have different ideas and activities that resonate with them. Take some time to try new things and see what sticks. Consistency is key in whichever practice you use and it’s how you’ll experience the most benefits.
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This blog is intended to be informational in nature. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your Care Team or other healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials.
