8 Tips for Better Mental Health by Nikki Staley, Ph.D

1. Meditate
Meditation is a great tool to train the brain to focus and to let go of the constant chatter of the conditioned mind.    The conditioned mind is formed from the ages of 0 to 8 years of age by learning "how the world is" through they eyes of our caretakers/parents and teachers who are around us during that period.  The brain is like a computer and the "conditioning" or computer program is set for how we experience life.  Once we leave the home of our caregivers we then have an opportunity to create "a new life" for ourselves.  This is the time when we can change the "conditioning" or computer program of "how the world is".  We can only make these changes by being present and the ability to be able experience life free of the conditioned mind.  Meditation allows the brain to go to that place of stillness, rest and rejuvenation and allows for deep profound change and inner healing.  Thus allowing for changes to be integrated and for new neuro-pathways to be formed in the brain.  This translates to how we experience the world.  A daily meditation practice is recommended every morning an evening and if you are working on changing any area of your life, meditation provides the space for this to occur.  It has now been scientifically proven that a minimum of 6 months of daily meditation or Reiki practise, twice a day, (morning an evening) is required to make any  conditioned thought processes permanent. 

2.  Reiki
Reiki is another great tool that allows for the conditioned mind to be still or present.  It creates a focus of wellbeing and  healing and allows connection to our true nature.  Reiki (or Reiki Ryoho), is a hands on healing modality/art that promotes wellbeing.    It is great for stress, anxiety and illness which restores and rebalances our energy and thought processes; allowing for the body to do what it was naturally designed to do, and that is, heal itself.

The word Reiki is Japanese in origin and it refers to the universal energy.  (Rei) means something mysterious, miraculous and sacred and (Ki) means the atmosphere, the unseen, or the energy of the universe.  Reiki can be defined as a miraculous and sacred energy of the universe that sustains all life.  If you would like to learn more about Reiki, Staley Health provide Reiki Courses and Clinic where you can learn or experience a Reiki treatment.

3.  Nurture Relationships
Having healthy relationships with other people is one of the most important factors to contributing to a sense of wellbeing.  This can include your partner or spouse, family, friends, co-workers and others in the community.  Investing time and energy and learning how to nurture your current relationships can lead to great benefits for all involved.   If you are having any difficulties with a current relationship Staley Health provide holistic counselling in a safe and comfortable environment to teach you ways of resolving and healing any relationship issues that you maybe experiencing.

4.  Exercise
Exercise is another important factor in creating wellbeing.  It has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.  Having a good diet is also a key element, avoiding excess alcohol or drugs,  processed foods and sugar.   Creating a wellbeing support network for yourself is important.  Regular check ups with your health care practitioner can also help.

5.  Be Thankful
Being thankful for the many blessings that you have in your life is another way of connecting to wellbeing.  When we are grateful for all of the wonderful things we have in our life right now it actually attracts more happiness and blessings to us.  Keeping a gratitude journal or reminding yourself everyday of just 3 positive things leads to increased wellbeing and abundance.

6.  Identify your good points and strengths
Every person on the planet is different and we all have different strengths and weakness but finding out what you are really good at and using those talents can increase your wellbeing.

7. Create Flow
Flow is the state of being is when we are completely in the moment and when we appear to "lose track of time".  This usually happens when we are doing an enjoyable activity at work, home in the creative arts or sports.   People that are able to be in this state of flow experience more joy, happiness and inner peace and are able to achieve great things.

8.  Give to Others
Making a contribution to the community, however small and no matter what it is, increases social wellbeing.  A lot of people feel a sense of contribution through meaningful work, but this could also mean volunteering your time to help a neighbour, friend, family member or a community group.  Doing something kind for someone is not only very helpful to others but also to ourselves.  It is also very important to give to ourselves as it is a way of nurturing our own enjoyment and experience of life cancelling out the negative thought processes related to depression, stress and anxiety.

To learn more about keeping great mental, physical and spiritual health, you can go to www.staleyhealth.com.