Feeling a little funky this fall?
In commemoration of World Mental Health Day on Sunday, October 10, 2021, here’s 4 different activities that may help put the pep back in your step. Feel free to try any combinations of the following wellness tools!
Spending time in nature
Journaling
Speaking to a licensed healthcare professional
Deep breathing exercises
PLACES TO SPEND TIME IN NATURE AROUND ATLANTA
It’s not as hard as you think to find respite from the busy Atlanta expressways. The area lends itself to some lush green spaces and even a few waterfalls—if you’re lucky enough to find them. Know that you’re not alone in your search for serenity amongst the many scenes that the Atlanta area has to offer.
Roswell Mill (pictured above)
Cascade Springs Nature preserve
Sweet water creek state park
JOURNALS TO ENHANCE WELLNESS
RESOURCES TO HELP FIND A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL
If you ever have any thoughts of harming yourself:
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1‑800‑273‑TALK (8255)
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Live Chat — http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/GetHelp/LifelineChat.aspx
If you are feeling depressed and want to talk to someone about it:
• Talkspace Online Counseling (online chat with a licensed therapist; no insurance required) — http://www.talkspace.com/
• SAMSHA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator (helps you locate a mental health service provider near you) — https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
BREATHING EXERCISES
Set your timer to 30 seconds for each of these
Steps to Box Breathing:
Step 1: Breathe in slowly as you count to 4.
Step 2: Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
Step 3: Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.
Step 4: Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
Step 5: Repeat steps 1-4
Steps to Lion’s Breath
Step 1: Inhale slowly through your nose
Step 2: At the beginning of your exhale, stick out your tongue and keep it out as you exhale. You’ll hear yourself making the sound, “haaaaaa”
Step 3: Repeat steps 1 and 2 for about 2-3 rounds (increasing this number as you gain more experience)