There are so many different things that you can do to improve your mental health. One of those things is reflecting on past experiences and where you are now. Taking time to reflect can help you recenter yourself and gather your thoughts. Unfortunately, it’s something many people overlook. If you’re looking for ways to slow down and reflect on your journey, you’ve come to the right place.
Pausing to Reflect
Being intentional and setting time aside to reflect can positively impact your mental health. If you have a busy schedule and the days seem to slip away, scheduling time for yourself can be especially helpful.
Many people’s picture of what it is to reflect looks like sitting quietly and doing something like meditating. While this is an option, there are different ways that you can reflect. Getting creative can add some variety to your routine and help you get excited about your reflection time.
Looking at Photos
Taking a look at old photos can be an excellent way to reflect on and remember certain periods in your life. So many people take photos but never look back on them, so intentionally scrolling or flipping through old pictures can be a great way to remember your favorite moments and honor the other people who were there.
Walking
If you get distracted sitting still while you’re reflecting, going for a walk can be a great way to incorporate structure, intention, and movement into your reflection. Take a walk on a beautiful trail or in a park. Making time to get outdoors can improve your mental health and help you stay focused on what you set out to do.
Writing a Letter
Since we have quicker and more easily accessible ways of communicating now, writing letters is becoming less and less common. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be a powerful tool. For example, say you’re reflecting on a certain period in your life and want to share with someone how grateful you are for them and the role that they played. Writing a letter can be an excellent way to share gratitude. Plus, it helps you get more out of your reflective time.
Reflecting is a great tool when you’re on a journey of recovery. It can promote gratitude and satisfaction while helping you remember how far you’ve come. At Avalon Malibu, our treatment plans are comprehensive and include things that are specific to each individual. If you’re ready to take the next step toward improving your mental health, reach out to us today to learn more about how we provide support. If you’re interested in ways that you can improve your mental health, give us a call at (844) 857-5992.
