For many of us, stress and anxiety often feel like unwelcome daily companions, and it’s easy to overlook the simple things that can help us maintain our mental health. We tend to search for big, life-changing solutions, but sometimes the best way to support our mental wellbeing is through small, consistent actions—our habits.
Believe it or not, the daily routines and habits we cultivate have a huge impact on how we feel mentally and emotionally.
How Habits and Mental Health are Connected
Why Habits Matter More Than You Think
Habits are those little things we do every day, often without even thinking about them—like brushing our teeth or checking our phone first thing in the morning. Over time, these routines shape our lives in more ways than we realise. When it comes to mental health, the right habits can provide structure, stability, and a sense of control, which are all essential for our emotional wellbeing.
Our brains love routine. When we repeat certain actions over and over, it strengthens neural pathways, making those actions easier to do without much thought. This frees up mental energy, so we don’t feel as overwhelmed by everyday decisions. When we deliberately create positive habits—like taking time for ourselves or practicing gratitude—we essentially give our brain a much-needed break from the chaos, allowing us to feel more grounded and in control.
Emotional Benefits of Good Habits
One of the best things about healthy habits is that they can help us regulate our emotions. Think about it: when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, what do you do to cope? If you have go-to habits like journaling, exercising, or meditating, you already have built-in ways to manage those feelings. These habits can be powerful tools to calm your mind, release pent-up emotions, and even boost your mood.
Consistently engaging in healthy habits can create a buffer for difficult times, helping you cope more effectively when things get tough. In other words, good habits can act as your emotional safety net.
Simple Habits to Boost Your Mental Wellbeing
1. Move Your Body in Ways You Enjoy
We’ve all heard that exercise is good for our physical health, but it’s also a game-changer for mental health. When you move your body, whether through a workout, a walk, or even some stretching, your brain releases endorphins—those “feel-good” hormones that naturally boost your mood. Regular physical activity is like a natural antidepressant, helping to reduce anxiety and stress while improving your overall outlook on life.
You don’t have to run marathons or hit the gym every day, either. Simple, consistent movement—like taking a 20-minute walk during lunch or doing yoga in the morning—can work wonders for your mental state. Plus, exercise can improve sleep quality, which is directly linked to better mental health. When you sleep well, you’re more equipped to handle stress and emotional challenges.
2. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation may sound like trendy buzzwords, but they’re actually some of the most effective ways to support mental wellbeing. These practices encourage you to slow down, focus on the present moment, and become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Even if you only have five minutes a day, practicing mindfulness or meditation can significantly reduce anxiety and help you feel more cantered. There are plenty of free apps and guided meditations out there to get you started, so you don’t need to be a meditation expert to benefit from this habit.
3. Stick to a Sleep Routine
Good sleep is the foundation of good mental health and having a consistent sleep routine is key to getting quality rest. When we’re sleep-deprived, our brains don’t function properly, and we’re more likely to feel stressed, irritable, or anxious.
One easy habit to improve your sleep is setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. Creating a calming bedtime routine—such as reading, journaling, or listening to calming music—can also signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down, making it easier to fall asleep.
Building Healthy Habits Takes Time, But It’s Worth It
When it comes to mental health, there’s no magic cure or quick fix. But the good news is that even small, positive habits can make a big difference over time. By creating routines that support your mental wellbeing—like daily movement, mindfulness, or prioritizing sleep—you’re giving yourself the tools to manage stress, improve your mood, and stay mentally resilient in the face of life’s ups and downs.
Remember, the key is consistency. Start small, focus on one habit at a time, and celebrate the little victories along the way. Before you know it, these habits will become second nature, and your mental health will thank you for it.
By creating the right habits, you can take control of your mental wellbeing, build emotional resilience, and find more peace in your everyday life. So why not start today?
For a limited time, you can access Dr. Gina Cleo’s free Habit Change Course- a collection of 5 video lessons straight to your inbox.
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