A healthy mind is just as important, if not more important, than keeping a healthy body. But lets be honest – your brain is a MUCH stronger tool than your muscles. Therefore, it is harder to train your brain to think positively than it is to train your muscles to grow stronger. Try the following five suggestions to not only keep your body happy, but to keep your brain happy as well.

1) Eat healthy

As the old saying goes; “A healthy body makes a healthy mind.” Skipping the junk food and eating a clean and well balanced diet will supply your body with the proper nutrients it desires, therefore keeping your energy levels up and keeping you feeling better all day long. On top of a well balanced diet, try drinking adequate amounts of water to stay hydrated and boost your metabolism.

2) Watch what you drink

Cut the massive amounts of caffeine and alcohol from your diet. Caffeine highs and alcohol consumption often occur to “enhance” one’s mood or to help mask their feelings, although they are only temporary. As many of you probably know, the crash after coming down from a caffeine high is often less enjoyable than the way you felt before even consuming it in the first place.

You don’t need to completely cut out your daily cup of joe, but try to keep that one cup from turning into three or four. Instead, try drinking more water, which will actually increase your energy levels, as well as your metabolism.

3) Train your brain

Your brain needs exercise in order to grow, just like any other muscle in your body. There are lots of different ways you can do this; from reading a book, to performing a crossword puzzle, to even playing certain computer or video games. People often forget that their mind is their most valuable tool, so keeping it fully functioning is very important to staying happy and living an active lifestyle.

4) Find yourself a hobby

Finding a hobby you enjoy is a very important step to creating a healthy mind. For me, I enjoy reading and writing (hence the reason I created a blog). Taking time out of every day in order to to devote yourself to your hobby will help you cope with stress, keep your mind busy and allow you to express yourself and your emotions.

5) Remember that you’re not alone & help is available

Those who suffer from anxiety or depression of any sort often feel alone. They feel as if everyone is happy but them. This could not be further from the truth. More people have gone through or are currently going what you’re going through than you can imagine – you’re not alone. If you feel that your daily activities are not helping you become a happier person, try talking to someone; a family member or a good friend. If things still don’t clear up, never be afraid to get help from a doctor. The world cares about you. The world needs you and everything you bring to it, more than you’ll ever know.