(Posted 2021 October)
Caring for our mental needs by attending to our capacity to make sense of the things around us is a critical part of self-care. We can do this work by engaging in activities that lead to a healthy and positive mental state or by participating in things that help us think more positively and stimulate inspiring images. Here are some ways to do this:
1. Visit a museum. Heading to the Smithsonian or the Louvre can help expand your horizons, give you lessons in humanity, provide inspiration or simply bring you peace. During the ongoing pandemic, you can even visit virtually.
2. Learn something new. For example, a language, painting or cooking. Setting and achieving goals creates a sense of achievement and has a positive impact.
3. Do mind workouts. The more active your brain is, the better your memory will be. Regular brain teasers and puzzles help keep our mind sharp and improve cognitive skills, so break out that Word Scramble, Sudoku or 5,000-piece puzzle.
4. Unplug. The benefits of a temporary breakup with your devices include present-moment awareness, improved sleep and better productivity when you do return to the digital world. For a more permanent separation, adjust push notifications, evaluate unused apps and create a list of go-to screen-free activities.
This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.
Learn more about the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS).