Mindfulness Can Help You Thrive
People who are mentally fit have better focus, more confidence, increased optimism, and the ability to face challenges with resilience. They even sleep better!
How can you develop mental fitness? By simply doing exercises that change the thought pathways in your brain! These pathways are like grooves that have deepened over time, becoming automatic responses to different situations you face.
As you build mental fitness, you’ll develop the ability to pause and respond intentionally. For example, instead of exploding with road rage when someone cuts you off on the highway, you can take a breath and choose to let it go.
Incorporate these three exercises into activities you already do every day, and before long you’ll notice a difference in how you respond to life’s challenges.
- Breathe deeply. Inhale slowly through your nose and let the air fill your belly. As you slowly exhale, draw your navel in toward your spine. Repeat this five times. Do this as you wait for your coffee to brew, before a meeting, or as you drive home at the end of the day.
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Be mindful. Begin by relaxing with a few deep breaths, then acknowledge each thought and let it go as if it were a balloon floating away. Continue doing this for five minutes while you’re driving to work, walking the dog, or taking a shower.
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Focus on your body. Try this when you’re going to bed, before you get up in the morning, or when you need to recharge. Relax and pay attention to each body part, starting at the top of your head and moving down to your toes.
You’re Not Alone
When life issues interfere with your daily activities or relationships, talking with a counselor can help you get back on track.
Teladoc offers confidential, convenient access to professional counselors (online or by phone), to participants 18 years and older. There is no cost to you. To schedule an appointment, go to teladochealth.com, download the app, or call (800) TELADOC (835-2362).
Your Health Plan covers outpatient mental health services (in-person or virtual) the same as any other health care service. A provider in the Aetna network may save you money. Search for one here, or visit our Find a Provider page.
