World Mental Health Day: Tips to Keep Wellness Top of Mind
The month of October is Mental Health Awareness Month in South Africa with the objective of educating the public about mental health and reducing the stigma and discrimination that people with mental illness are often subjected to.
World Mental Health Day is honoured on 10 October every year and offers the perfect opportunity for self reflection and to prioritise your mental health. Your mental health plays a role in the health of your hormones, sleep, exercise, and skin and it’s important to consider the connection between your body and mind in order to achieve overall well-being. Here are few things to consider as you focus on your mental health this month and beyond:
The importance of physical exercise for mental well-being
Fitness can play a big role in helping you achieve the six elements of mental well-being, especially in improving your relationship with yourself and others, independence, personal growth, and development, as well as having a purpose; a dedicated goal. Engaging in regular exercise can have a positive influence on various aspects of mental well-being, including mood, stress levels, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.
Not convinced? Just ask, Schalk Hugo, founding owner and CEO of the global gym, Ignite Fitness. According to Hugo, staying active is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. Hugo points out that, exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. These chemicals play a crucial role in regulating mood and reducing feelings of anxiety and depression. Endorphins, in particular, are often referred to as “feel-good” hormones because they create a sense of euphoria and reduce pain perception.
Hugo also shares that physical activity can act as a natural stress reliever. It helps the body better manage and recover from stress by reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Regular exercise can also improve the body’s ability to cope with future stressors. Plus, throw in the added benefits of improved sleep, enhanced self-esteem, and social interaction in a gym or studio environment and you’ve a recipe for success.
The effect sleep has on your mental health
According to a Harvard study, sleep and mental health are closely connected, and sleep deprivation affects your psychological state and mental health. The study also found that those with mental health problems are more likely to have insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Rudo Kemp, founder of Sloom, a local and innovative mattress company, says creating the perfect sleeping environment can help you achieve your rest goals for both your body and mind. If you’re not getting good quality sleep every night, then it may be worth taking a look at your mattress.
“The physical aspects of a mattress are pivotal in ensuring consistent, high-quality sleep, which in turn has profound effects on mental well-being,” says Kemp. “Our mattresses are designed to be comfort-adjustable, allowing individuals to tailor the firmness to what feels best for them. This kind of personalisation ensures that the physical connection between the sleeper and the mattress is in harmony, leading to a more restful sleep.”
The mental health-skin connection
Focusing on your mental health can also do wonders for your skin, says Nicole Sherwin, founder Eco Diva Natural Superfood Skincare. According to Sherwin, the key to great skin is not just about using the right products or getting enough sleep (though those things help).
It’s no secret that stress takes a toll on our skin — just think about how your complexion looks when you’re feeling rundown or tense. When we’re stressed, our bodies produce the hormone cortisol, which triggers inflammation and can lead to breakouts, accelerated aging and other skin problems. That’s why it’s so important to manage stress levels proactively.
The key to a radiant complexion is balance — in gut health, skin health and mental health. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to do manage stress and prioritise mental well-being — from exercise and journaling to meditation and time in nature. Find what works for you and make it part of your daily routine. Trust us, your skin will thank you!
International Business & Mindset Coach, Marley Rose Harris recommends using tools like manifestation and a bedtime routine to reach your goals. “Your subconscious mind is most malleable in the evening right before bed and in the morning. This is the best time to rewire your belief system,” says Harris. “Before bed recall five things you are grateful for throughout the day, which can be little or big things. The purpose is to attune your mind to look to things to be grateful for. Right when your eyes open in the morning affirm anything you are focusing on manifesting. Your subconscious mind is simply spectacular and sleep is the key to opening the door!” she adds excitedly.
Hormones and mental health
Hormonal fluctuations can have a significant impact on mental health, explains Kiko Vitals, founder, Kerri-Lee Taylor. Estrogen, for example, plays a role in regulating serotonin levels, which can affect mood. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, particularly during menstrual or menopause, can lead to mood swings, depression, or anxiety. Imbalances in thyroid hormones or the use of hormonal contraceptives can also impact mental health. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health disorders.
Kiko Vitals supplements illuminate the profound link between menstrual health and mental well-being, empowering individuals on their sacred feminine wellness journey. “Our mission at Kiko Vitals is to support individuals on their wellness journey, and we believe that mental health is an integral part of overall well-being,” says Taylor. “By highlighting the connection between menstruation and mental health, we aim to empower individuals with knowledge, strategies, and resources to optimise their emotional well-being.”