Unexpected Ways to Boost Your Mental Health
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We all know the usual mental health advice: get plenty of sleep, exercise, eat well, maybe meditate a little. And sure, those things help, but what if you’ve already tried them and still feel stuck? Sometimes, the best remedies are the ones you wouldn’t think to try—unexpected habits and activities that give your mind the refresh it desperately needs. If your usual self-care routine isn’t cutting it, here are some unique, and perhaps surprising, ways to boost your mental well-being.
Go Somewhere You’ve Never Been—Without a Plan
There’s something about stepping into the unknown that shakes up your brain in the best way possible. Try hopping on a bus or subway without knowing exactly where you’ll end up. Walk into a bookstore you’ve never noticed before, or take a long drive without a GPS. When you force yourself into an unfamiliar environment, your brain becomes more present, more curious, and—surprisingly—more at peace. It’s a little adventure that disrupts monotony and reminds you that life can still surprise you.
The Power of Mindfulness in Shaping Positivity
Mindfulness isn’t just about slowing down—it’s about truly engaging with the present moment, allowing yourself to experience life without the weight of past regrets or future anxieties. When you practice mindfulness, you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions, giving you the chance to reframe negative patterns before they take hold. By embracing the present moment without judgment, you create space for a more positive and balanced mindset. Over time, this intentional awareness fosters resilience, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the small joys that often go unnoticed.
Write Letters to Your Past (or Future) Self
Journaling is great, but writing a letter to yourself—your past self, your future self, or even a version of yourself from a different time in life—adds an element of reflection that feels like time travel. If you’re feeling lost, write to your younger self with the wisdom you’ve gained. If you need direction, imagine your future self writing back with encouragement. This simple act helps you process emotions in a deeply personal way, reinforcing the idea that growth is always happening, even when you can’t see it.
Try the ‘No Mirror’ Challenge
You don’t realize how often you check your reflection until you stop looking. Try avoiding mirrors (and front-facing cameras) for a whole day, or even a week. It’s a small but powerful shift that breaks the cycle of self-scrutiny, forcing you to engage with the world without worrying about how you appear in it. Many people report feeling lighter, less self-conscious, and more in tune with how they feel rather than how they look.
Trust the Energy Around You
Your intuition is your most powerful guide, but too often, you second-guess it, letting logic or fear override what your spirit already knows. Start tuning into the energy around you—notice how certain people, places, or situations make you feel before analyzing them with your mind. If something feels off, trust that instinct; if something fills you with warmth and ease, lean into it. Spiritual growth isn’t about finding all the answers—it’s about strengthening your ability to listen to the quiet wisdom that’s always been within you.
Talk to Strangers—Like, Really Talk to Them
We tend to stick to polite small talk, but what happens when you go a little deeper? Ask your barista how their day is really going. Compliment someone on the subway and strike up a conversation. Sometimes, these quick, unexpected connections can make you feel more human, more engaged, and remind you that kindness exists in the world. You never know what kind of wisdom a total stranger might drop into your life.
Curate a ‘Feel-Good’ Soundtrack—And Actually Use It
Music has a way of shifting moods instantly. Instead of listening to whatever’s playing, be intentional. Create a playlist of songs that remind you of happy moments, old friends, or just make you want to dance. Play it when you wake up, when you’re feeling down, or even while you’re making dinner. A carefully curated soundtrack can shape the energy of your day in ways you don’t even realize.
Embrace the Art of Doing Nothing
In a world that glorifies productivity, doing nothing feels wrong. But giving yourself permission to sit, stare at the ceiling, or watch the wind move through the trees without reaching for your phone can be incredibly freeing. It’s not about boredom—it’s about letting your mind rest without the pressure to fill every moment with activity. You might be surprised how much clarity and peace can come from a little bit of nothing.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health, and sometimes, the most effective changes are the ones that catch you off guard. When traditional self-care isn’t enough, shake things up. Try something new, break a habit, or add a little spontaneity into your routine. You never know what small shift might lead to a much bigger breakthrough.
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About The Author
Here, at Nourishing Existence, we love to allow others to share their voices. This wonderful article was written by Shannon Shore from The Advice Resource.
Shannon Shore’s vision for The Advice Resource is to create a dynamic platform offering support and insights into Healthy Lifestyle, Relationships, Career & Investing, and Personal Finance. Driven by her own journey and a passion for sharing valuable information, Shannon curates and presents resources designed to be both relevant and helpful.
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