Happy New Year

2024 is Here! Are you ready?

Yall!

We made it to a whole NEW YEAR! Give yourself a hug and hand. I know you had some really tough moments in 2023 and guess what, You Made It! I encourage you to take some time to evaluate what didn't go well, what could have gone better and where you want to go from here. This is your life and it is imperative that you are intentional about it. For 2024, you need prayer, a plan and a clear path. You will not be successful in implementing said plan if your mental health is out of whack. Let's Get to Work On That Now!

Check Out These Practical Ways to Care for Your Mental Health in 2024

• Establish a Routine: Create and stick to a daily routine that includes activities beneficial for mental well-being. Have a consistent sleep patterns, get regular exercise, take mindful breaks, and make time for hobbies or relaxation. Get a morning routine and an evening routine. Don't fret if that routine gets disrupted, you have already created a way, just jump back on the path when this happens. A structured routine will provide you with stability and a sense of control.

• Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries and use discipline around screen time. Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Youtube, Games and news consumption can take up an exorbitant amount of time. I encourage you to earn screen time by completing important tasks and work prior to indulging. Also, consider designated periods for checking emails and social platforms to prevent information overload and potential negative impacts on mood or self-esteem.

• Prioritize Healthy Habits: What do you need to do or keep doing for your physical health. Be sure you are nourishing your body with balanced nutrition, hydration, and regular physical activity. Physical health and mental health are intertwined, so taking care of your body will positively impact your mind and your mood.

• Practice Emotional Expression: Simply put, feel your feelings. Allow yourself space to acknowledge and express your emotions. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music can help process feelings and reduce stress. Processing and moving your body will help release emotions that may have become locked in your body causing inflammation, migraines, acid reflux and other ailments.

• Exercise Your Right to Say 'No': Set boundaries with yourself and say 'no' when needed. Most of the time, this involves you saying no to yourself. Prioritize your mental well-being by recognizing your limits and not overcommitting. Keep up with your obligations electronically or using a physical calendar so that you can see what you have on your plate. For example, if your work demands are already high, saying 'no' or limiting additional responsibilities will help reduce stress, frustration and prevent you from burning out. It may keep you from getting ill.

• Plan and Organize: Create a plan to stay organized and reduce last-minute stress. Make a plan for the month, week and each day. Create lists, set priorities and allocate time for different tasks you want to accomplish in order of importance to you. Do not do this by thinking about what you should be able to do, throw that notion out right now. Commit based on what you can do and what makes sense for you and your schedule. Be sure to group tasks that are alike together and include a Quit Time into your schedule. Rest should always be counted as an important part of your day. Know when to SHUT IT DOWN. Having a clear plan will help you manage your time efficiently and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

• Create Time for Yourself: In the midst of all the things you do for everyone else, please incorporate non-negotiable time for solitude. This is guilt free and all about you. You are not any good to anyone if you never give yourself what you give to others so freely. This can be you taking fifteen minutes several times a day, once week, bi-weekly or monthly. Some examples are things you can do include going to dance class, taking up swimming or baking, non work related travel, reading a daily devotional, intentional quiet time, coloring, dancing, painting, sewing, crafting or cooking. Find an activity that resonates and keep the commitment to you, for you.

Caring for your mental health is an ongoing journey. Small, consistent steps will make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

We Are Expecting More and Guarding Our Edges All 2024!

WE GOT THIS!

My Prayer for You Is An Excerpt of "The Irish Blessing"

"May green be the grass you walk on,

May blue be the skies above you,

May pure be the joys that surround you,

May true be the hearts that love you.

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of his hand."

Author Unknown

I hope 2024 brings you more love, peace, joy and clarity. This year will be what you want it to be and more if you are intentional. Remember to Write the Vision, Make it Plan and Put In the Work! I am writing my vision so be on the look for some action from me soon!

I really appreciate you taking time to read my lil blog. If this information helped you, share it with others and leave me a comment to let me know. Also, if you feel led, please donate to the Mingo Matters Foundation. Click the link. Your donation will go towards a very important cause: Community Mental Health and Wellness. It's the perfect time to grab a copy of my workbook: Above All, Guard Your Edges: A Black Girls Guided Journal To Reducing the Effects of Stress to get started on your mental health goals for the New Year.

Wishing You Much Love & Healing,

Eunice

eunicemingo.com