Ah, the new year – the time when we roll out resolutions that often end up making us feel like we've fallen short. Yay for another round of self-imposed guilt!
Everyone's entitled to their opinion on new year's resolutions. But, let's shift our focus to something that truly deserves our attention: mental health. It's not just a trend; it's something we should take seriously, not just in moments of crisis but as part of our regular well-being routine.
Recently, I stumbled upon an article in Jane's Front Desk Magazine discussing Myodetox and their approach to wellness. These wellness destinations across the GTA have nailed it with their motto, "future-proofing your body," emphasizing the importance of investing in the maintenance of our muscles and joints to prevent injury.
It got me thinking – why don't we treat our minds the same way? We're quick to seek help when we're in crisis, or we follow routines like hitting the gym a few times a week or visiting the dentist every 6-9 months. So, why not prioritize regular mental health check-ins, like seeing a therapist, to ensure our minds are in tip-top shape?
Sure, seeking therapy during a crisis is entirely valid. But what about those moments when life is cruising along smoothly? Do we still need therapy then? My take is YES, and here's why.
During a crisis, it's like dealing with a fire – we focus on immediate stabilization and relief - putting out the fire. The emotions are high, and it's challenging to address the root of the problem - what started this fire. This often leads to the recurrence of crises because we haven't fully tackled the underlying issues.
Now, imagine being in a mentally comfortable space. Here, we can delve into more activating or traumatic material with better skills, awareness, and presence. It's in this zone that we can do essential work to uncover the root causes or promote fuller healing, rather than just putting out fires.
So, in 2024, let's make mental health a consistent priority, not just a reactionary measure. Regular therapy sessions, like those regular gym workouts, can contribute significantly to maintaining optimal mental well-being. It's time to invest in future-proofing not just our bodies but our minds too.
