Dear A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste, Just like we brush our teeth and (usually) try to eat our vegetables to keep our bodies in check, our minds need some loving maintenance too. Mental health isn’t just about therapy or deep conversations (though those are important). It’s about what you do every single day, especially on days you don’t feel like doing anything.
So, let’s talk daily habits. Not the kind that require a full lifestyle overhaul, but the simple, doable, real-life kind that can keep your brain and heart feeling a little more steady.
You don’t need a fullblown morning routine with candles, cold plunges, and fifteen minutes of yoga on a Himalayan rock. (But hey, if that’s your thing, go for it!) I’m talking about one small moment of calm. Before you pick up your phone or get swept up in the day’s chaos, pause, sit with a cup of coffee or tea, and just breathe for a few minutes. Other ideas include: Write one line in a journal, just a thought, a feeling, or something you’re thankful for. Step outside for a few minutes of sunlight and fresh air.
Starting the day with intention tells your brain: “I’m okay. I’ve got this.”
You don’t have to be a gym rat or a marathon runner. (Aunt B is neither.) But your body and mind are deeply connected, and moving your body helps get some of that mental gunk unstuck. Take a brisk 10-minute walk. Dance to one of your favorite songs in the kitchen. Stretch while watching TV.
It doesn’t have to be intense or fancy. Just move. And don’t think of it as a punishment; it’s a gift to your brain.
I’m not going to harp on this too long because you’ve heard it before, but your brain is part of your body, and it runs better on good fuel. When we’re dehydrated or living off sugar and caffeine, it messes with our mood and energy levels.
Try to: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. Add a fruit or veggie to each meal (even if it’s just a handful of baby carrots). Don’t skip meals—your brain needs regular energy to function. You don’t need to eat perfectly, just aim for better most of the time.
I know. Easier said than done. But spending hours scrolling through social media or news headlines is like feeding your brain junk food all day long. It might feel like a treat, but too much makes you feel sick and sluggish. Set small limits for yourself: maybe no phone in bed or during meals. Use apps that track and gently limit screen time. When you catch yourself mindlessly scrolling, ask: “Is this making me feel better or worse?” Technology is a tool. Use it, don’t let it use you.
We humans are wired for connection. Mental health takes a nosedive when we feel isolated or unseen. Make it a habit to: Text or call someone just to say hi. Make small talk with the barista or cashier. Smile at a neighbor or coworker.
If you’re anything like the rest of us, your inner voice might sound like a cranky old critic. Turn down the volume on that negativity by making a habit of speaking kindly to yourself. Keep practicing kindness until it takes root with repetition.
This one’s important. Life can become an endless todo list if you’re not careful. So each day, even for five minutes, do something just because it makes you smile. Read a few pages of a book. Watch a funny video. Take up a hobby or doodle on a napkin. Joy is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.
How you end your day matters just as much as how you start it. Take a few deep breaths before bed. Write down anything that’s nagging you—get it out of your head and onto paper. Do a quick scan of your day and name one thing you’re proud of or grateful for. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Just something to help your brain settle.
These habits aren’t about being perfect. They’re about being gentle with yourself. Your mental health is a garden. It needs sunlight, water, and a little attention every day. Some days you’ll forget to water it. That’s okay. Just start again tomorrow.
Start small. Pick one or two habits and build from there. The tiniest shifts, done consistently, can change everything.
And remember: taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish. It’s smart. And it’s brave.
Love, Aunt B
If you would like to send Aunt B a question please email your question to news@ forneymessenger. com.
- Log in or Subscribe to post comments.