In today’s world, it has become too easy to get caught up in materialistic ideas and standards. Today we are not only declining in physical health, but many of us are suffering from decreased mental health.

Today’s world can be extremely stressful. We are always so busy with our 9-5 schedules, and fulfilling our responsibilities at home, that we often forget to take time out for ourselves. I mean, it’s hard to do. We’re the busiest generation ever. If you’ve been feeling down and maybe a little depressed lately, it’s okay. There are many things you can do to naturally increase your mental health. You don’t have to go to a doctor and get prescribed a mood stabilizer and an antidepressant to be happy, no matter what all the commercials say. That’s all a money scheme. All you have to do is follow these easy and natural tips.

Walk to Reduce Depression

Scientists have shown us in many different studies that physical activity can have an astounding effect on your mental health. Just fifteen minutes of hiking per day can literally change your brain. Many psychiatrists and physicians say that walking every day is one of the easiest things to do to reduce depression. Studies show that 200 minutes of walking per week, (30 Minutes a day), can reduce depression and improve your overall quality of life.

Smile

I know what you’re thinking, I sound just like a mom. However, smiling through the pain really has amazing benefits. Of course, you should never ignore your hurt and bottle it up. But it is extremely good for you to remain optimistic even through the hard times. Studies show that smiling influences your physical state heavily. It can decrease your heart rate during a stressful time. You might even go as far as making a joke during a bad time to lighten things up. It has a bigger impact than you think.

Practice Breathing

Mindful breathing has tons of different benefits. It can increase your physical health as well as your mental health. Simply allowing things to flow and focus on your breathing can change everything. Deep breaths have been shown to significantly improve your mental state by research. Studies also show that people who multitask have trouble taking tests and performing concentrated activities. Taking deep breaths can provide an immediate boost in focus and help you improve your performance.

Do Yoga

Yoga has amazing benefits for the body, mind, and soul. It can even be utilized to deal with symptoms of PTSD. Yoga increases the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that can counteract anxiety and other psychiatric emotions such as PTSD triggers.

Lift Weights

Lifting weights increase your physical health by building muscle and improving circulation. But it can also help you mentally because of the small goals consisted in the practice. When we do 15 reps instead of 10 it can make us feel a lot better about ourselves. Studies show that setting small goals throughout the day can make you much happier and more self-fulfilled.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up

It is totally normal to have sad and down days. We all have them, and in today’s world, we too often try to be perfect. One constant state of happiness does not exist – so stop trying for it. It’s always okay to not be okay. But it’s more important to be able to pick yourself up and move on. That’s what really matters.