7 Easy Ways To Boost Your Mental Health, According to Our Health Editors

It’s important to support your mental health and you may be looking for ways to improve it. We asked our editors to name one habit that has most improved their mental health. Here’s what works for them and what might work for you.

I stop responding to messages immediately if my reaction is harsh, thoughtless, or if I don’t know what to say. I’ve learned that I feel better and kinder if I take the time to respond to something sensitive, whether at work or in my personal life.

-Anisa Arsenault

I hate the standard mental health advice to “try yoga.” Then I tried yoga. Wow, was I cynical or what? Yoga is not only amazing for my body, but it also does wonders for my mental health. Sometimes I find myself in the zone, and two hours pass without me realizing it. Finding my zen has been one of the best health habits I’ve developed to date.

-Dana Ingemann

Walking in the morning gives me time to myself, which is invaluable. Walking outside in the morning clears my mind and generally makes me feel calmer. I think it’s because of the calm that reigns at the start of the day. I even feel like the air smells fresher (maybe because there are fewer cars on the road, so less exhaust smell?). Just getting some fresh air immediately makes me happy. I find it very meditative to take morning walks.

-Jas Thompson

Taking time for a daily walk (or two!) during the work day has really helped refresh my brain and body. I try to squeeze in 30-45 minutes throughout the day, but even a quick 10-minute jaunt around the block provides a beneficial “reset.” I come back ready to tackle another task before forcing another mini-break every hour or so.

-Jamie Wolff

Take regular short walks outside throughout the day. These mini walks have completely changed the mood: the fresh air, movement, and mental break (whether it’s listening to a podcast or catching up with a friend) makes a big difference.

-Jani Room

Breathing sounds like a trick to combat anxiety. I use box breathing: in for four seconds, hold for four, out for four, hold for four. This forces your body to slow down and calms you physically. If I feel an anxiety attack, I supplement the box several times or until I feel relaxed. It really works.

-Hannah Harper

It could be anything: the gym, yoga, a walk. Just moving my body can get me out of an anxiety spiral and improve my mood for the rest of the day. Bonus points if I can get a phone call with family or friends while training.

-Jenna Anderson

There are many activities and practices that can help your mental health. The key is to find the one (or ones!) that work best for You. Maybe one of our editors’ habits will work for you. Or maybe eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting proper rest, or staying connected will help you a lot. Whatever the habit, it can help you manage stress and improve your mental health.