Taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. When we think about health, we often focus on eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest.
But to truly feel your best, you should look after your mental and emotional health in addition to your physical health. Keep reading to find some simple tips to care for each part of your wellbeing.
Why Your Health Matters
Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all connected. If you’re feeling stressed or sad, it can affect your energy levels and even make you sick. On the other hand, when your body feels strong and healthy, it can make it easier to handle life’s challenges. Caring for your whole self helps you stay balanced and enjoy life more fully.
What’s the Difference Between Mental and Emotional Health?
While they’re connected, mental and emotional health aren’t the same.
Mental health includes your emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It’s about how you think, handle information, and make choices. Emotional health is a part of mental health that focuses on recognizing, understanding, and managing feelings. Even though they are connected, you can have good mental health while struggling with your emotions—or the other way around.
For example, stress might affect your mental health by making it hard to focus. In contrast, emotional health might involve dealing with feelings like anger, sadness, or joy.
By looking after both, you can build resilience and cope better with life’s ups and downs.
Why Physical Health Matters
Taking care of your body is the foundation for overall wellbeing. When your body feels strong and healthy, it’s easier to handle stress, focus on tasks, and enjoy daily life. Physical health isn’t just about avoiding sickness—it’s about building energy, improving mood, and staying active so you can participate in your favourite activities.
Tips for Physical Health
Stay Active: Using the Hartley Bay gym will help keep you moving. Walking, fishing, chopping wood, or even playing with your kids are great other ways to stay active.
Eat Well: Choose traditional foods like salmon, berries, or seaweed when possible. They’re full of nutrients that help your body stay strong.
Rest Up: Sleep is when your body recharges. Aim for 7–9 hours a night and try to keep a regular bedtime.
Tips for Mental Health
Challenge Your Mind: Keep your brain active by learning something new. Read, do puzzles, or listen to stories from Elders.
Set Goals: Even small goals, like cleaning a part of your home or finishing a craft project, can give you a sense of accomplishment.
Take Breaks: If you feel overwhelmed, step outside and breathe deeply. Nature can help calm your mind.
Tips for Emotional Health
Talk It Out: Share your feelings with someone you trust—a friend, family member, or community counsellor (book time with a counsellor through the Health Department!).
Practice Gratitude: Think of three things you’re thankful for each day, big or small. This can lift your spirits.
Connect with Culture: Drumming, singing, or participating in ceremonies can help bring peace to your heart.
Ask for Help When You Need It
Taking care of your health doesn’t mean you must do it alone. If you’re struggling, reach out. Talking to a health worker, Elder, family member, or friend can make a big difference.
You deserve to feel strong in body, clear in mind, and at peace in spirit. Taking small steps each day can help you care for yourself and enjoy the beautiful life around you.
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