How to Revitalise Your Mind and Prioritise Your Mental Health in 2024 With Dr Becky Spelman
Here at Story Magazine we love our fashion, beauty, culture and travel but we know that to enjoy these things we must prioritise our wellbeing and mental health.
As we enter into a new season it is imperative to take proactive steps to care for our mental health. In a bid to this we spoke to Dr Becky Spelman Psychologist and CEO and Founder at Private Therapy Clinic. It is one of London’s leading Psychological Therapy and Psychiatry Clinics and Dr Spelman uses Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness to treat a range of difficulties, with a particular interest in Borderline Personality Disorder.
Given her acumen and experience we were honoured for Dr Spelman to share with us how you and we all can revitalise our minds and prioritise our mental health this year.
This is what she shared!
DR BECKY SPELMAN
It has been a long winter, and for many people, the reduced sunlight, colder temperatures, and increased isolation has had a negative impact on their mental health. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common condition during winter, characterised by feelings of depression and low energy. As we transition into the spring and summer seasons, we can take proactive steps to care for our mental health, which will lead to a more positive and fulfilling 2024.
5 Strategies for Elevating Your Mental Health:
1) Practice mindfulness
In the short term, practicing mindfulness regularly can lead to reduced stress, improved focus, enhanced emotional regulation, better relationships, and increased self-awareness. There are long-term benefits too, including improved attention span, enhanced emotional regulation, improved communication and empathy, and a deeper understanding of oneself. Mindfulness helps us to build resilience and can improve our quality of life over time as we learn to cope with challenges, manage our emotions, and live more intentionally and authentically.
2) Exercise regularly
Exercise may not be at the top of your priority list, but it’s definitely worth considering. Regular exercise has known mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. You can incorporate walking, yoga, or dancing into your weekly routine to help improve your mental well-being. Consider exercising with a friend – accountability can be an excellent motivational tool!
3) Try art therapy
Art therapy, which can encompass any creative activity, is a powerful form of self-expression and can help you to process and cope with difficult emotions. Consider drawing, painting or sculpting as a way to explore your feelings and improve your mental health.
4) Practice colour therapy
Colouring isn’t just for children! Popularised during the lockdown because of its mental health benefits, colouring is a relaxing and meditative activity that can reduce stress and promote mindfulness. Find a colouring book with an exciting theme and some colored pencils or pens – whether you’re sitting at the kitchen table or looking to improve your daily commute, colour therapy is a great way to unwind.
5) Try therapy
If you are struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from a psychologist or therapist. If you don’t know where to start, try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, or talk therapy. You can meet with a mental health professional in person or online, and they will provide you with the necessary support and guidance to help you improve your mental health and overall quality of life.
Dr Becky Spelman direction is life-changing. We will be putting these pointers into action for better mental health and overall wellbeing. Dr Spelman offers therapy and is online here.