What’s your “go to” method for a mental health reset?

I take a rod and reel and some hip waders and go throw a line in the water

My favorite mental health reset would be to go outdoors. Literally anything I can do outside that would be reminiscent of how I spent time during my adolescent years would be ideal. Stepping outside, closing my eyes and just listening. Even going as far as taking off my socks and shoes and putting my feet in the grass. No phone use and disconnected. Essentially just sunshine and fresh air or fresh cut grass without a glass of lemonade or rain showers with rainbows. Connecting with myself in moments where I have always felt safe reminds of where and how far I’ve come which creates immediate perspective.

I jump in my Jeep- doors off of the weather allows and go drive some trails. My favorite times is when my mom or dad join me for the day. Nothing better for taking my mind off daily worries. The tougher the trail the better.

My go to method is Jiu jitsu. Other than a really good workout, there’s nothing more humbling than getting submitted by someone smaller and less strong than you. Jiu jitsu aids in more than just being a mental reset it’s a way of life. Technique is a part of everything. If you do things the wrong way there’s a risk of injury and overall a longer path to success as opposed to learning the most effective ways to accomplish your goals.

Watching funny videos of animals and kids on social media.

My "go-to" method to reset is nature, my twins, and when I need some great feedback, I reach out to my therapist. The best way to relax is to allow your senses to take complete control. I listen to the "pure" sounds of music created by the wind's melody, the trees dancing, and the birds, insects, and animals communicating. I look around and absorb the view of the utopic scenery. I take in everything from the colors to the textures of the bark on the trees and plants... It's all unique, like myself. I'll take a few deep breaths and smell the aroma of the flowers nearby or the grass... Unless I'm near a dog park LOL. I even TRY to meditate ( emphasis on the word TRY :) ) and have a moment of appreciation. Lastly, I'll take a walk or stretch barefoot in my backyard (again, not at a dog park), just so I can feel a bit more "grounded," balanced, and centered from the Earth's energy... It does help. Also, being with my twins and their unconditional love, support, positive vibes, and "judgment-free" zone always help me "reset" when I feel uneasy. For those times when I'm feeling "hunched over" because the weight on my back has gotten quite heavy, I reach out to my therapist, and we talk through it. Therapy is a blessing and shows you have courage and strength. I am so grateful for my therapist!

skiing in the winter. you really can't let your mind wander while skiing or the snow snakes will get you. :- ) when I can't ski, I play pickleball or powerwalk or anything athletic outside. something about the fresh air, sunshine (even on a cloudy day) helps me. actually is the infusion of dopamine & serotonin from exercise & sunshine that calms me down. In addition, I jot down notes on what is going on with me and discuss it with my clinical psychologist, and he usually does some EMDR on me --best thing for complex PTSD

When my anxiety has gotten so out of control that I can’t stop pacing/moving and the voices in my head won’t stop the negative cycle, I pull out a coloring book or a drawing app on my tablet. And then I reset my mind. I use the coloring to quiet the voices until I can hear my own telling me that I am ok. And then I am ready to listen to others that remind me that I am okay.

Hard physical labor

When my anxiety has gotten so out of control that I can’t stop pacing/moving and the voices in my head won’t stop the negative cycle, I pull out a coloring book or a drawing app on my tablet. And then I reset my mind. I use the coloring to quiet the voices until I can hear my own telling me that I am ok. And then I am ready to listen to others that remind me that I am okay.