Let’s take a pause on physical fitness and focus on something deeper; Mental Health. That's our emotional, psychological, and social well-being that affects how we think, feel, and act. It determines how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions.

Your mental health should be top priority when tackling any obstacle. May it be fitness related or just life in general, our mental heath plays a huge role in achieving well, everything!

Here are 5 helpful habits that will improve your mental health.

1. Get active and take care of your body.

Hey, you’re doing awesome already if you’re a member of the AGFitFam! 😉

It’s important to move daily whether that's from a hard hitting workout, a walk through the park or good ol’ sex. Getting your heart rate up pumps endorphins, lowers anxiety and builds your confidence. Plus, the more you practice, the better you feel.

2. Find a strong social circle.

If you’re a hermit like me this can be challenging at times, but building meaningful connections will go a long way to improve your mental health.

Be bold! Join a church group, a running club, or the AGFitFam! Check ✅

Making personal connections allows you to practice listening, venting and bouncing ideas or feelings among like-minded people. It’s healing on so many levels.

I challenge you to get out of your comfort zone. It seems scary until the day you do it and walk away with new friends.

3. Cultivate the attitude of gratitude.

I promise this will make an impact on how you feel, act and think around others and towards yourself. Practicing gratitude is one of the proven habits that betters a person's mental health.

Whether for big or small things, internal or external, showing gratitude will improve your mood, the energy you put off and your perspective on life.

This habit can change your mindset by boosting self-esteem, increase resilience, and help you see the positive side of any situation.

4. Limit screen time.

Did you know adults on average spend 11 hours a day on their smartphones? WILD.

While social channels are a great way to stay informed and connected, it’s also lead to increased depression, anxiety and loneliness. Separating yourself even for just 30 minutes a day will boost your mental health.

Maybe enforce a “No Phone Zone” at dinner time and reap the benefits of living in the present with family, friends or your awesome self.

5. Be kind to yourself.

This is a loaded statement because it embodies everything above and more. I’ll break it down into 4 parts.

A. Feed your body well - stuffing it with junk food and alcohol regularly is not being kind to your body. On the flip side, remember we do not workout for punishment for what we eat. #balance

B. Leave personal insults at the door - try saying a few nice things to yourself everyday until you finally believe it and adjust your mindset.

C. Rest, recover, and kick ass because you know it’s good for you.

D. Seek help when you need it and do not be ashamed for prioritizing your metal health. First, talk to a trusted friend or family member and if you need a perfect unbiased stranger, go to a professional. Never forget your mental health is precious.

These habits won’t happen overnight so it’s important to be mindful everyday and check yourself to...

• Move a little more

• Open yourself up to new friendships

• Practice gratitude

• Limit screen time, and

• Be kind to yourself.

Now, share some wisdom with the fam! What are habits you've adopted that improve your mental health?