We like to think of the KBPT team as personal trainers for your body and your mind. That’s because we know what an amazingly positive impact exercise can have on your mental health. In this blog, we take a look at five ways you can boost your mental health in 2023. These are based on the five steps to good mental wellbeing as recommended by the NHS, Mind and other mental health experts.
1. Connect with other people
Friends, family, colleagues, neighbours… spending time with people you know and care about is essential for staying mentally healthy. It helps you to build a sense of belonging and provides an opportunity to share positive experiences. It also enables you to give support and receive support when times are tough.
January ‘to do’ list:
Get together with a group of mates for a walk, dinner or movie night
Call grandma (or, ideally, video chat with her so she can see your face)
Invite your work bestie out for lunch
2. Be physically active
Yes, we’re a bit biased, but this is our favourite tip! Regular exercise is not just good for your physical health, it can also improve your mental health. It causes chemical changes in your brain and can help to reduce feelings of stress and increase your self-esteem, for example.
January ‘to do’ list:
Do at least 10,000 steps a day
Go for a bike ride at the weekend
Sign up for personal training with KBPT 🙂
3. Learn new skills
When was the last time you learnt something new? It’s time to take advantage of all the YouTube tutorials and short courses that are available. Whether you’re into gardening, pottery, yoga or something else, now’s the time to gain some new skills, increase your self-confidence and meet new people.
January ‘to do’ list:
Write down three things you’ve always wanted to learn
Find out what courses are on offer at your local college
Teach yourself to cook two new recipes by the end of the month
4. Give to others
With the spiralling cost of living affecting so many people, charities and community groups would welcome your support this winter. Perhaps you could donate to your local food bank or volunteer as a telephone befriender? Giving to others doesn’t only help the people you support, it can also give you a sense of purpose and reward.
January ‘to do’ list:
Ask a friend or relative if you can help them with anything (e.g. DIY or shopping)
Add some extra items to your supermarket basket and donate them to charity
Check your local council website for volunteering opportunities nearby
5. Pay attention to the present moment
Does it sometimes feel like life is going way too fast? I mean, it’s already 2023! One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to slow down and pay attention to your thought and feelings in the present moment. Often called being ‘mindful’, this can help you to understand yourself better and enjoy life more.
January ‘to do’ list:
Notice the small things, like how your coffee tastes and the sounds around you
Put aside 10 minutes a day to do some deep breathing, meditation or yoga
Download a mindfulness app
If you’d like KBPT to help you boost your physical and mental health, contact Kate at kate@kbpersonaltraining.co.uk
