Sometimes I can find myself feeling low and my spirits down for what seems like no good reason. I’ll feel a bit grumpy and don’t feel like doing the things I need to do. Many factors can affect our moods, including sleep deprivation, low blood sugar, stress, diet, and hormones. But sometimes, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what’s causing us to feel low, so we go through the day feeling blah

At times, the world can feel out of control and chaotic. So, I’ve learned that I must protect my inner peace as much as possible, especially as someone who experiences anxiety. This is not to say I ignore what’s happening in the world and forget about everyone struggling. Still, I’ve learned that if I’m overtaken by anxiety, I will be too stressed and overwhelmed to do anything to help anyone else.

Some people may never struggle with their mental health, and that’s great. But in 2019, 1 in every 8 people globally were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression the most common (World Health Organization). So that means even if you’ve never struggled with your mental health, you have a relative, friend, colleague, or neighbor who will or already does. 

Exercise has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. It has helped me through some very dark times. I exercise daily and use it for mental and physical health. I understand that only some people are naturally drawn to or motivated to exercise. Below are three tips for staying motivated to exercise.

Some of us must choose joy each day. Given the state of the world, it may feel challenging to find something to be joyful about, but that isn’t true. There are still so many things in life to find joy in. Here are six ways I’ve been able to cultivate joy even in a challenging world.

Being well requires consistently implementing healthy habits, even small ones that add up over time. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate rest, quality time with family and friends, and enjoying good food. Once we switch mindsets and understand that wellness is a lifestyle, we can find joy in caring for our bodies.

I embraced a minimalist lifestyle several years ago and completely decluttered my home. At the time, I experienced high levels of anxiety and stress, and I believe having so much stuff contributed to that anxiety. Since decluttering and adopting a minimalist lifestyle, I’ve been less stressed, can make decisions more clearly, and feel at ease in my home and work environments (for the most part).

I’m a veteran who served in the Air Force for 13 years. I enjoyed the service and gained a lot of experience. Toward the end of my service, I received an assignment to deploy for six months. This assignment was given to me at the last minute because I was replacing someone who was unable to go. As a result, I didn’t have much time to prepare mentally, emotionally, or physically.