Editor’s Note: As summer wraps, and we prepare our children for a new school year, we can’t help but take a pause and check on ourselves, and each other.
When we learned about Naziat Hassan-Ahmed at a Sol of a Woman Women of Impact Awards event, we were all ears when it came to Hassan-Ahmed’s mental health advocacy for Muslim and South Asian women, as well as her social justice efforts for all women and groups in need. Her goal is to democratize mental health services. In this guest column, Naziat Hassan-Ahmed, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-T, pens a gentle roadmap toward mental wellness:
There is something about transitions, change in seasons, and evolution. Change is vital but it does not need to cost you your mental health.
The world is full of challenges, setbacks, and pushbacks but even during these tumultuous times, great things can come about. It is okay to feel at your lowest. There are moments where our feelings may be overwhelming, preventing us from getting out of bed, taking a shower, or even doing chores. It can feel like the world is toppling over and there is no way out. It is especially in these moments where you need to assess and honor your feelings. By honoring your feelings, you are acknowledging them, bringing attention to them, and gradually letting go.
Now, I am not saying “just let it go and move on”. What I am saying is that you can manifest a healthy lifestyle into existence. You can be the best version of yourself, and it does not require perfection. You do not need to be limited to long routines and endless completion of tasks.
Some tips and strategies for a healthier lifestyle when you are at your lowest are first and foremost making others aware of your priorities.
Setting those boundaries is essential. It can be difficult to do so and easier said than done, but remember, you are not disrespecting anyone. You are simply prioritizing your needs, which come first. In a lot of cultures, setting boundaries may seem unheard of because we are so invested in making peace in our relationships. You can find balance in maintaining respect as well as those healthy boundaries.
The second tip is surrounding yourself with positive people and people whom you trust. When you are in the company of people who uplift you, your body responds positively. Dopamine levels increase and you just feel good deep inside. It does not have to be eating out at lavish restaurants or planning a hangout. It can be simply calling up a friend whom you love and trust and venting about your life. Of course, you also want to be mindful of their time and capacity. It can be surrounding yourself with people whom you have a loving relationship with.
The third tip is doing things you love, unwinding, and relaxing. Whether it is a enjoying a good cup of coffee, reading a book, or going for a walk or even a drive. I have heard somewhere that when you are under stress, go for a walk. It changes your perspective on the situation. Make time for yourself and do things that fulfill you.
Finally, take hold of your health. We often take our health for granted and then we wonder why we feel weak, lethargic, or unable to be productive. Eat foods rich in vitamins, nutrition, and healthy fats. There are many foods with benefits to boost our mental health. Get your body moving. Exercising helps release endorphins and removes some stress.
For more tips and strategies to better your mental health along with these simple ways, please follow me on Instagram at pearlsofwellbeing!
