Taking care of one’s mental health, by having rest day and time, is essential for overall well-being.

It’s imperative for us to recognize the importance of prioritizing self-care and giving ourselves the opportunity to recharge. Mental recharge is particularly necessary as more people are resorting to working more than one job. Not just two jobs, but, two full-time jobs. I’ve met a few who work three jobs! Working one job is demanding enough with its toil on the body especially if you have a long commute. I figure that working two full-time jobs, will unequivocally be double the demand and toil!

The question then becomes “when does those who work two full-time jobs find the time to rest and recharge?”

Justification

There are those who believe that the time to work all the jobs you can is when you’re young and agile. There’s some truth to that, but I am a believer that if you work your body to death, so to speak, when you’re younger, the body might not be able to sustain you in your older years. That body might cave in and be “dead” before you and it’s time. Ouch. Sorry, that’s a cold truth.

Get your Sleep and Rest

Get enough quality sleep by aiming for 7-9 hours each night. Adequate rest is crucial for mental health and helps improve cognitive function, mood regulation, and stress management. In addition, and if you’re opportune to, take a half to one-hour nap in between your day. Some call it siesta. It’s amazing how energizing naps/siestas can be. Try it.

In addition to sleep and rest, here are some more ideas for your mental recharge:

1. Nature Walk: Spend some time outdoors in a nearby park or nature reserve. Walking among trees and listening to the sounds of nature can be incredibly calming.
2. Meditation: Practice meditation to help clear your mind and relieve stress. There are many free resources available online for guided sessions.
3. Creative Expression: Engage in a creative activity that you enjoy, such as painting, writing, or crafting. Expressing yourself creatively can be therapeutic and rejuvenating.
4. Reading: Escape into a good book or listen to an audiobook. Reading can provide a mental break and transport you to different worlds.
5. Spa Day at Home: Treat yourself to a DIY spa day with relaxing activities like a bubble bath, face mask, and aromatherapy.
6. Healthy Cooking: Prepare a nutritious and delicious meal from scratch. Cooking can be a mindful activity that helps you focus on the present moment.
7. Disconnect from Technology: As hard as it is for most of us, take a break from screens and spend some time away from electronic devices. Unplugging can help reduce stress and improve your mental well-being.
8. Journaling: Spend some time journaling about your thoughts and feelings. Writing can help you gain clarity and perspective on your emotions.
9. Listen to Music: Create a playlist of your favorite songs or explore new music genres. Music has the power to uplift your mood and evoke positive emotions.
10. Quality Time with Loved Ones: Spend time with friends or family members who make you feel supported and loved. Connecting with others can boost your mood and strengthen your relationships.
11. Practice Gratitude: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Gratitude can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of life and improve your overall outlook.
12. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or commitments that drain your energy or cause unnecessary stress. Setting boundaries allows you to prioritize your well-being and focus on what truly matters to you.
13. Stay Active: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, as physical activity can have a positive impact on your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s going for a walk, jogging, running, or playing a sport.
14. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily life, such as deep breathing exercises, body scans, or mindful eating. Mindfulness can help you stay present in the moment and reduce feelings of overwhelm or anxiety.
15. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a professional therapist if you’re struggling with your mental health. Talking to someone you trust can provide comfort and perspective, and therapy can offer valuable tools and strategies for coping with challenges.
16. Limit Stress: Identify sources of stress in your life and find ways to minimize or manage them. This might involve delegating tasks, prioritizing self-care, or practicing relaxation techniques.
17. Stay Connected: Maintain meaningful connections with others by reaching out regularly to friends and loved ones. Social support is important for mental recharge and can provide a sense of belonging and validation.

Feel free to customize your mental recharge with activities that resonate with you!

Remember that self-care is an ongoing process, and it’s okay to prioritize your needs and well-being. Take small steps each day to nurture your mental recharge, and don’t hesitate to ask for help, or mental day or time off work, when you need it.