Thankfully, society has put a spotlight on mental health over the last few years. As a result, many people have changed the way they think about the subject, and tend more closely to their own mental health.
These past few months have been unusually stressful for many. Summertime is usually a festive few months where work slows down, and people take off Friday early to spend time with friends.
The topic of mental health is very broad, and any clinical assessment requires highly-trained professionals. But there are a few attainable ways you can reduce your stress levels this summer without even leaving home.
CBD Edibles
“CBD,” short for “cannabidiol,” is a compound that activates specific neurotransmitters to work with the endocannabinoid system. In simple English, CBD is the second-most prevalent ingredient in marijuana, except it does not produce the “high” commonly associated with that drug.
Instead, consuming CBD through Olli edibles or a CBD-infused tea beverage activates the part of your brain that makes you relax. Your serotonin levels will rise, reducing anxiety in the process. The feeling is calming, but mild.
These products are available in safe and controlled dosages from reputable businesses. In some cases, edibles are made by executive chefs, and CBD-infused tea is blended by tea sommeliers. Replace your stress with the calm and serene feeling you get from consuming CBD.
Get Outdoors
For centuries, poets have written about the spirit of connection inspired by simply being outdoors, and modern science is backing that up. New research confirms that spending time outdoors has significant and wide-ranging health benefits.
Just being outside reduces people’s levels of salivary cortisol — a physiological indicator of stress. You know how good it feels to look out and see various hues of green and blue, or to breathe in the fresh air.
Especially after spending so long indoors, going for a walk in some greenspace outdoors will help you feel calm.
Play the Right Music
Everybody has a favorite band or song they love. Music has a mysterious power to control how people feel. Music makes people want to dance, and we’ve all seen somebody keep time with their foot without even realizing they’re doing it.
That’s because music affects brain dopamine regulation, a neurotransmitter strongly connected to emotional behavior and mood regulation. It may sound like people are speaking figuratively when they talk about the “vibe” of a certain song, but music is literally sound waves vibrating in your living room.
Maybe you want to hear the new summer hit that makes you feel like you’re at the beach whenever you play it, or perhaps there’s a tune from a different genre that has a personal connection to you. There are no wrong answers in music: play whatever tunes will make you feel better.
Society’s relatively newfound interest in mental health is a good thing. We should all remember to slow down and look after ourselves. You may want to consider talking to a professional therapist, depending on your needs. But if you’re feeling stressed this summer and want some accessible ways to feel better, keep the above tips in mind.
