Mental Health (The 3 M’s)

“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” – Noam Sphancer

Each year, millions of people around the world face the reality of living with a mental illness. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of people of all ages, myself included! At an early age in life, I was diagnosed with depression, anxiety, dyslexia and OCD. Through years and years of practice (and therapy), I have been able to turn these once-thought “disabilities” into “Superpowers” by focusing on The 3 M’s.

1. Movement: While equally as important as the other 2 M’s, this is my absolute favorite. Movement can be defined as a brisk walk, a run, yoga, biking, cycling, lifting weights, Pilates and SO much more. All that is required is that you move your body. Your body is its own drug pharmacy and movement helps to release exactly what you need (endorphins, dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin) to feel good. Movement also improves bone health, regulates blood pressure, improves quality of sleep and can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Aim for a minimum of 15-30+ minutes per day, 5 days a week.

2. Music: Music helps to get the mind right. Reggae, hip hop, classic rock and ambient music are some of my favorites. What are your favorites? Try listening to music during your Movement sessions throughout the week (and during work) as the combination of these 2 M’s plays a critical role in connecting mind, body and breath. Music has been proven to elevate mood, decrease stress and anxiety, and connect humans to one another. The poet and author, Berthold Auerbach once stated, “Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” So open your Spotify or ITunes, put on your favorite playlist, and let the music free you. One of my favorite playlists to listen to while working can be found here.

3. Meditation: One of the first things I do when I wake up is meditate.  Meditation helps to clear out the brain fog that is left over from the day before. It also helps to clear the mind so that creativity can flow freely from moment to moment. This practice helps to increase self-awareness while simultaneously strengthening one’s focus and concentration. It can also increase energy without the come-down or side effects that one might experience via caffeine.

By enjoying any form of Movement, Music and Meditation on a daily basis, we improve our ability to deal with the challenges life puts in front of us, thereby enhancing our creativity, mood, energy and mindset!  These 3 M’s have pulled me out of some very dark places and I hope they do the same for you!

Enjoy what comes of today!