The holidays are fast approaching, and despite the hustle and bustle of the upcoming busy season, taking charge of your emotional wellness should be at the top of your to-do list. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup!
What is Emotional Wellness?
This was the topic of the Obesity Action Coalition’s latest OAC-TV broadcast, featuring licensed psychologist Rachel Goldman, PhD, FTOS.
Dr. Goldman defined emotional wellness as the ability to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to change in difficult situations. It’s about understanding and being aware of our emotions which helps you handle whatever comes your way.
Why is it Important?
Our thoughts, emotions and behaviors are all linked, so everything we think, feel, and do can impact our entire day. A simple thought, no matter how big or small, can trigger a new emotion. For example, thinking about your upcoming work tasks on a Sunday evening can make you anxious and steal the joy from your weekend.
Taking charge of your emotional wellness is important for maintaining balance, handling stress, and navigating difficult times.
How to Be Your Own Superhero
Putting a few simple strategies into action can help you manage your emotional wellness when life is constantly changing and pulling you in different directions. Consider the tips below for becoming your own superhero through thick and thin.
- Take a breath, a moment, a pause. A simple timeout can help you relax and process your emotions. Just be present and focus on the now.
- Focus on what is in your control. When something happens that is out of your control, the only thing you can control is how you react to it.
- Remind yourself that you are human. Life happens. Try to do the best you can under the given circumstances and let that be enough.
- Plan in advance. If you are anticipating a stressful situation, plan for how you will maintain your boundaries and personal space. Know the individuals you will be interacting with and what you can do to avoid discomfort.
- Treat yourself like you would treat a friend. Your self-compassion should look like the compassion you strive to give your loved ones.
- Focus on your key health behaviors. These include getting enough water to stay hydrated, moving your body with physical activity, eating nutritious foods, managing stress and getting enough sleep.
- Be aware of your influences. Who do you spend time with or follow on social media that may be having a negative impact on your emotional wellness?
- Set and keep boundaries. They are important for preserving your emotional wellness and avoiding unnecessary stress.
For more tips on taking charge of your emotional wellness and becoming your own superhero, click here for the full OAC-TV broadcast with Dr. Goldman from the Obesity Action Coalition.
