It's ok.

You attracted this post. Yes, you.

I want to tell you something and it's very important so if you can't read this right now, come back in a few - no problem!

Your mental health is the most important thing in your life. You can't function, do good at your job or help others if you are not mentally secure. It's ok to feel down, lost, sad or depressed. These are all natural feelings humans have. I believe in you to heal.

I want to tell you that it's ok to take a moment to breathe, it's ok to go off camera, it's ok to take a walk during your lunch break! It's ok!

What's NOT ok is NOT giving yourself a mental break (or vacation) depending on who you are and how much time you need. Whether you are 4 years old, or 75 years old, everyone needs to schedule some mental breaks.

I read a great article recently I wanted to quote here that has some really great tips.

"What is a mental health break?

Simply put, a mental health break is anything that allows you to step back, relax, and recharge your mind. Mental health breaks can look different for everyone, depending on what helps them feel the renewal they need. Some mental health breaks may only last for 10 minutes, while others may include a week-long vacation. Ideally, you’d probably get a mixture of the two, taking smaller, regular breaks to keep you going throughout the week, along with longer breaks to help perform a deeper reset.?

You probably have a good idea of what a mental health break would look like for you, but here are a few ideas of how to spend that break time.?

Get outside.?

Fresh air and sunshine can have a?positive impact on your mental health. Take a hike, eat outside, or simply go for a short walk to give yourself a beneficial mental health break.

Enjoy your food.?

How many times do you eat lunch at your desk while trying to one-handedly type out an email? Or, how often do you eat your breakfast on-the-go, mindlessly eating while running through your to-do list for the day? Slowing down and taking the time to savor your food can give you a pleasant break a few times a day. Put your phone away, let the distractions go, and give yourself permission to enjoy.

Meditate.?

Meditation is a great way to spend a short mental health break. Follow a guided meditation, or simply take deep breaths and try to calm your mind. Either way, your brain will appreciate hitting the “pause” button for a few minutes.

Talk to someone.?

Research shows that social connection is tied to happiness. A friendly conversation can be a great way to take a mental health break.

Rest.

Getting good sleep is vital to mental health. Use your break to take a power nap, or to give yourself an earlier bedtime.?

Reflect.?

In today’s busy world, taking time to pause and reflect is probably rare for most people. But doing this kind of work, whether it’s working through your feelings, making a list of things you’re grateful for, or simply reminiscing on good times, can help you give yourself a mental health break.

Do something creative.

Creativity often requires you to access a different part of your brain, giving your “autopilot mode” a rest.?Here are some things to try to give your creativity a boost.?

The bottom line is: a mental health break can be anything you want it to be. Whatever it is, just make sure it’s something that leaves you feeling relaxed and recharged.?"

If you want to read more, check out the article here: The Science Behind Mental Health Breaks

I am constantly reminding my team to take mental breaks. I do this because I care about them as humans. It's that simple.

It's ok to focus on you. I promise it will end good.

Much love to you - Sebastian