The Cambridge dictionary defines the mind as that part of a person that makes it possible for him or her to think, feel emotions, and understand things.
The seventeen century English Poet John Milton was sure on point when he famously said, “The mind is its own place and, in itself, can make a heaven of hell or a hell of heaven.”
In a way, the mind is a precious, robust, and at the same time delicate entity. Thoughts, mental wellbeing, emotions, actions all tap and depend on its circuit.
Our state of mind influences our self-image, wellbeing, and happiness and how we perceive, interpret and react to adversity and challenges. This ultimately shapes and defines our physical and psychological wellbeing, social connections, and relationships. If you dig deeper, you would realize just as our thoughts, our minds indeed create and shape our lives.
It is of great importance that the mind is nurtured and constantly nourished. Why so? The benefits are immense.
Benefits of nurturing the mind
- more optimistic mindset
- better self-image and self-acceptance
- less depression and moodiness,
- greater overall sense of wellbeing and life satisfaction
- better coping mechanism
- increased enthusiasm
- more courage
- An energized mind,
- resourcefulness and productivity
- more empathy, kindness, and compassion,
- greater peace of mind, tranquility, and much more.
Below are some great ways to take care of the mind.
1. Watch out for what goes into your precious body; be it drugs or food. This is an often-underestimated aspect yet so trivial. Your body and mind form a symbiotic system where each part benefits from and supports the other. What generally goes inside your body greatly affects the body. The Marcopera once said: “the body is like a garden with plants. The number of green and fertile plants depends on the manure, light, and water the plants get” those cigarettes, drugs, poor nutrients slowly but gradually destroy the fertility of your garden, annihilating the brightness and firmness of the plants. Be more than mindful of what goes into your body, your lovely garden.
2. Strive to get enough sleep & rest frequently. Indeed sleep is an important component in caring for the mind. A rejuvenated body enriches the mind. Have you ever noticed how irritated and moody you are after a poor night’s sleep. Not only is your concentration negatively affected but also your metabolism. Think about this: there is a scientific indication that chronic lack of sleep may increase stress hormones, contributing to the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is no coincidence that sleep deprivation is unfortunately used as a form of torture. Go to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) | for more on research, updates and the benefits of adequate sleep.
3. Move, stay active, stretch out & regularly exercise the body. As already mentioned, the body and mind support each other. How well you take care of your body affects how well you feel. Think about having a toothache and being at ease. Movement improves circulation. That, in turn, enriches different parts of your body, which ultimately affects mental wellbeing. Check out this article Visit Healthline and check out this article on the benefits of Stretching.
4. Routinely read & listen to motivational writings and videos. Everyone needs encouragement in life. The truth is life can sometimes be challenging, be it with that goal, dream, or just inner strength. Making it a routine to get inspiration from an empowering source could be the extra heat needed to weather through the cold night.
5. Have reliable & good friends, even if just a few. Loyal relationships are a tenet of lasting happiness. Human beings are said to be social animals. Even if you cherish your solitude, have a friend or two you could confide to who could offer a shoulder to lean on in times of adversity and turbulence. Research shows good and quality relationship is directly related to general satisfaction and happiness.
6. Regularly take a step back from the daily chaos, slow down & peacefully reboot & calm the mind. TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF
Have you ever wondered why turning your jammed electronic device ‘off and on’ often gets it going smoothly once more? The mind also tends to freeze in chaos and frenzy. Recently I have been meditating more often, and I can personally attest there are great benefits in rebooting and seeking mental calm and tranquility. Check more on meditation: The famous Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius, sounded profound when he posited, “Nowhere can man find a quieter or more untroubled retreat than in his own soul”
7. Make it a habit to ponder and fine-tune your true purpose in life and gravitate towards it. You see, Living in harmony with your true purpose tends to convey inner peace and enhance an overall sense of satisfaction. While this may seem trivial, experience shows that many people engage in activities and careers that do not align with their core values. Giving, choice, and career paths might change over time; it is essential to regularly take stock of one’s life to assess whether one is living in line with their values. This small exercise which requires a thorough and honest analysis as well as understanding the deeper “why” of one’s actions and choices, can be a great eye-opener towards finding more meaning and true fulfillment.
8. Actively use your thoughts to condition your mind to remain sane, at ease & happy! Lastly, reference is made to the power of ideas. As stated above, what you think affects how you feel and ultimately what you do. It goes without saying that one could use their thoughts to motivate and uplift the mind and spirits.
The German spiritual teacher and writer Eckhart Tolle nicely and succinctly stated: “The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation but your thoughts about it. Be aware of the thoughts you are thinking. Separate them from the situation, which is always neutral, which always is as it is.”
“The 16th president of the United States -Abraham Lincoln was sure on point to assert: “Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be
9. Take control of your life, accept responsibility while setting appropriate boundaries.: This is actually a big one because it touches on an essential aspect of mental health. Autonomy; It incorporates accepting that you are the captain of your ship and that irrespective of what comes your way, you have and take full responsibility for how you react and respond. That entails tossing out the blame game instead, setting the proper boundaries from the onset, and adjusting to the outcome accordingly. Realms of possible Boundaries: physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. It entails respecting others’ spaces as well as protecting yours.
10. Practice gratitude. Gratitude is something often underestimated in life. Like good relationships, research show gratitude is an important recipe for happiness. By cultivating a habit of gratitude, one indirectly programs the mind to be satisfied.
2 thoughts on “Why it is so important to take care of your mind”
Very relaxing for the mind. Indeed,I am currently learning to be more appreciative. Gratitude is very important thanks for Sharing
Thanks, inspiring