We made it through 2020, can you believe it?

It was one of the most challenging years of our time with isolation, loneliness, anxiety and so many other emotions. It was difficult for many of us to make the time to keep up with our physical health and, especially, our mental wellness.

I will be honest, there were times I did not know how I would make it through another day. My mental health truly struggled. What was there for me? My physical health. Now, I will be the first to admit, I have gained the COVID pounds, but when things got really rough on me mentally, my go to was a nice long walk. Breathing in the fresh air, seeing different sights and sounds and just having some time to myself has been a saving grace for me while dealing with the difficult times of the pandemic.

As we move into 2021, how do we keep incorporating our physical health and mental health?

Make BOTH your physical and mental health a priority – According to the Mental Health Foundation, “A clear distinction is often made between mind and body. But when considering mental health and physical health, the two should not be thought of as separate. Poor physical health can lead to an increased risk of developing mental health problems. Similarly, poor mental health can negatively impact physical health, leading to an increased risk of some conditions.”

One thing the pandemic has taught us is that they are truly one in the same. Both needing care and attention.

Be gentle with yourself – Be realistic. If you have been sitting in your home office for 9 months and think you are going to get up and run a marathon, you are going to be very disappointed. However, a starting goal of 10 minutes of movement a day for 5 days is doable and will feel much better when it is accomplished. You can then increase your goals, be gentle with yourself and start to see success.

Incorporate an accountability buddy when you can – We are all more accountable when someone is checking in on us. We don’t want to let that person down and we also start to feel responsible if they are not finding success. Try to find someone who will set similar goals as you and check in on each other. It will make a difference and it is also a way to stay connected with friends or family.

One of the main giving pillars for the Businessolver Foundation is mental health. However, we are very aware that it is connected to a person’s physical health. We encourage you to take good care of yourself in 2021. If you need additional help, seek it out. If you just need a little nudge, take that leap. After all, 2021 has to be better than what we just went through!

For more tips on mental health and physical health check out this video.