The importance of a daily ‘check-in’

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and whilst I am a huge advocate for the week it feels such a shame that we need this annual ‘instruction’ to self-reflect and be more aware of others. Surely being aware of how we feel both mentally and physically should be something that we all ‘check-in’ with daily – for if we don’t understand ourselves, know the triggers which impact how we feel how can we recognise the signs that someone else is struggling. 

As the world opens up and life gets busier, I’ve had to think more about maintaining my mental health. It’s all too easy to get tied to a desk with endless zoom calls and not break, let alone take that daily walk which became a habit during lockdown. 
I’m extremely lucky to have never suffered a major crisis or had to seek professional help, but without a regular check-in with myself, the things that help me soon slip. Once my sleep becomes erratic and I want to hide away rather than socialise I know something has become out of kilter. 

I work out daily as much for my head as my body but so much of this is still at home. A recent return to outdoor training filled me with more joy that I ever imagined. The tingling cold made my body feel alive, the warmth of the sun, the fresh air filling my lungs, the sound of other voices in ‘real life’ left me feeling exhilarated, and ready for bed by 9pm! 

Now working out isn’t what does it for everyone - the point is that I make time for this, and myself, DAILY, WITHOUT FAIL as I know it works for me. It’s 45 mins where I think of nothing else, where I focus on my mind and my body and what they can achieve, and from where I leave buzzing and ready for the rest of the day. 

My advice for what it’s worth, find one thing that makes you happy – however small, that allows you to focus on you and do it daily. It’s ok to take time out. It’s ok to be a little selfish. As they say on the telly, ‘because we’re worth it!’