Between endless news notifications and the constant juggling act of life admin, friendships and work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But taking a moment for your mental health doesn’t have to add to your mental load. In fact, little things can go a long way in boosting your mood. From taking a stroll by the beach to picking up the phone for a chat, everyday activities can do a world of good for your general wellness.
To help you find simple ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing, we’ve partnered with Think Mental Health to roundup things to do in WA when you aren’t feeling top notch.
Take A Hike
There’s no shortage of stunning spots around Perth, and one of the best ways to feel good is to get moving. For a quick boost, take a deep breath while you take in Kings Park loop’s panoramic city views. Schedule a 5km Sunday stroll through City Beach’s Zamia Trail and centre yourself with the coastal breeze and surrounding bush. If you’re aching for a city escape, chase waterfalls through Lesmurdie Falls or into the hills through Whistlepipe Gully. Be sure to pack some snacks and keep the self-love coming with a picturesque picnic post-hike.
Get A Dose Of Vitamin Sea
There’s no competition when it comes to WA’s beaches—and our stunning coastlines are also brimming with health benefits. Packed with high magnesium levels, a trip to the beach can help regulate nerve functionality, moderate blood sugar levels and even improve sleep. Not to mention the sand can work as a natural exfoliant leaving you with a mini pedicure. All you need to do is decide which beach to boost your vitamin sea at first. For the adventurous at heart, check out Omeo Dive Wreck and snorkel in the crystal blue waters. Chase classic WA sunsets at Leighton Beach in Leighton, or recentre among the calming waters at South Beach in South Freo.
Draw It Out
Painting, drawing and colouring—whether you’re a renaissance artist or not—can do a world of good when it comes to lowering stress and anxiety. Create a space for paints, pens and paper and let your feelings guide what ends up on the page. For people that prefer more structure, grab a colouring book, switch off and let the picture come to life. If quality time with others fills your cup, share your new hobby and invite your friends over for a night of art and snacks.
Phone A Friend
Sometimes it's the smallest actions that do a world of good for our mental wellbeing, and maintaining social connection with our friends and family can help bring a meaningful boost to your overall mood. Scheduling in a quick phone call with your closest pals can bring a much needed boost to your week. Slot in a quick walk while chatting or complete a task you've been putting off as you talk— like organising that pesky section of your closet you've been putting off.
Grab Some Good Stuff
Taking time to enjoy the little things can make us feel good both inside and out. Pop into Bunn Mee in Leederville and add some colour and delicious Vietnamese treats to your day. Chow down on fresh Banh Mi under the lantern adorned cafe. Make sure to order their sweet Vietnamese iced coffee to-go and enjoy some extra pep in your step for the rest of the day.
Schedule Some Pampering Time
Want to switch off for an afternoon? Pop your phone on do not disturb for an afternoon of self-care. Light your favourite candle, fill the tub with essentail oils, turn on your favourite playlist and pop on an at-home face mask. Share the love and get your crew together for a self-care night of at-home masks and treatments to share the self-love.
Life can be hard at times, but there are lots of little things you can do to maintain your emotional strength and wellbeing. Find your way to okay at Think Mental Health.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Think Mental Health and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Images: Urban List.