This fall season, we asked our experts from the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health to share their favorite self-care tip to practice during the holidays.
Check out their answers using the slider below.
Tip #1:
"Working out to enjoy what my body can do, and not because I overate."
— Ari Acosta, Behavioral Health Equity Specialist (South Southwest MHTTC)
Tip #2:
"I like to cuddle with my lapdog while listening to soothing music."
— Michelle Monk, Senior Program Coordinator (South Southwest MHTTC)
Tip #3:
"One new tradition my family has developed over the holiday season is to write each other letters (in place of cards) about why that person matters to you. It allows each of us to take time to remember we are appreciated, we bring unique strengths to the world, we are not alone, and we can recognize strengths in others."
— Holly Gursslin, Senior Program Coordinator (South Southwest MHTTC)
Tip #4:
"Escaping for a 'nap' — which is really time spent reading for pleasure."
— Kaleigh Emerson, Researcher (Texas System of Care/Transition-Age Youth Initiatives)
Tip #5:
"I try to be outside, go for hikes, and bird watch."
— Andrés Guariguata, Clinical Services Lead (Texas System of Care)
Tip #6:
"The holidays can be nice because they provide an opportunity to spend time with friends and family, but being surrounded by people can also cause a lot of stress. I find that it helps to intentionally set aside time for being able to get away from people. For me, that means finding a quiet coffee shop where I can sit and reflect."
— David McClung, Youth Engagement Specialist (Texas System of Care - Project ACCEPT)
Tip #7:
"Keeping a perspective of gratefulness and striving to do something charitable with my family is always self-nourishing."
— Cory Morris, Implementation Specialist (Texas System of Care)
Tip #8:
"I like to play dance-friendly music while taking on the household tasks, like cooking, cleaning, and wrapping."
— Molly Lopez, Director (Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health)
Tip #9:
"I listen to interesting podcasts during long drives to visit family."
— Tracy Levins, State Development Specialist (Texas System of Care)
Tip #10:
"I prioritize sleep and exercise to balance out the extra eating and drinking"
— Molly Sanders, School Mental Health Evaluator (Texas System of Care)
nice tips images and information ..thanks