Psychologists have shown in numerous studies that self-criticism doesn’t lead to higher success or satisfaction in life. Indeed, many health professionals believe there’s no difference between self-criticism and self-sabotage. So, what do these experts recommend as a psychological motivator? Compassion and love! Showing yourself love every day is one of the best habits to boost your emotional and physical well-being. Try out these three suggestions to give your self-esteem a long-lasting boost.
Get Your Zen On
There are now hundreds of studies proving the incredible health benefits of practicing the ancient discipline of meditation. Daily meditators are often healthier and better able to deal with stress than non-meditators. No matter what meditation practice you pick up, the key concept to keep in mind is “non-judgment.” Whatever emotions or thoughts come up during your meditation session, acknowledge them from an objective vantage point and gently return your focus to the breath. Even if you only practice for 15-minutes every day, you’ll soon notice a significant boost in your mood. For those who aren’t into seated meditation, consider practicing a mindfulness-based exercise routine like yoga or Tai Chi. Giving your mind a rest from every-day stress will encourage positivity and let you recharge for the future.
It’s the Little Things
We all have a few things we’d like to change about our appearance. Sometimes not feeling good about our physical appearance can have significant negative effects on our social lives and psychological well-being. Thankfully, there are many simple and safe things you could try to feel your best about how you look and in general. For instance, if you’re self-conscious about your smile to the point that you try to suppress the urge to smile, you could look into Invisalign retainers to straighten your teeth. Studies have shown that smiling can give your mental health a positive boost and help you be happier. Just this small change can help you feel better and help spread joy to others. Other things like wearing clothes that make you happy and surrounding yourself with your favorite colors can help you feel more confident and positive in any situation.
Eat the Best Diet for You
It’s true that we are what we eat. While it might be tempting to grab a tub of ice cream or sweets when we’re in the dumps, scientific studies now show people who eat healthful diets are far less likely to suffer depression. But don’t worry—eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or based on exclusion! You’d be surprised how many delicious foods are superb for mental health. In addition to plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, be sure to add some dark chocolate, wild-caught salmon, eggs, grass-fed beef, and mussels to your diet. By eating these good foods and avoiding heavily refined meats and sugary snacks, you’ll give your whole body some serious lovin’!
We might not be able to change the world, but we can change ourselves for the better. As we treat ourselves well, we’re better able to embrace the present moment and share joy with friends and family.
