Self-care practices are essential for maintaining good mental health and well- being. Here are some self-care practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine:

i. Get enough sleep: Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help regulate your mood and reduce stress.

ii. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help boost your mood and energy levels.

iii. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

iv. Practice relaxation techniques: Activities such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

v. Connect with others: Spending time with friends and family can help reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of connection.

vi. Set boundaries: Learning to say “no” and setting limits on your time and energy can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and stress.

vii. Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy: Doing things that bring you pleasure and a sense of accomplishment can help boost mood and self- esteem.

There are some other ways for self-care practices that can be beneficial for mental health.

These self-care practices can be easily incorporated into everyday life and can help individuals manage their mental health and well-being.

Art therapy: Art therapy involves using creative processes to help individuals express themselves and cope with emotional issues. It can be particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty expressing their emotions through words. Studies have shown that art therapy can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall mental health (Malchiodi, 2012).

Forest therapy: Also known as Shinrin-Yoku, forest therapy is a practice that involves spending time in nature and immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Research has shown that forest therapy can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood (Song et al., 2018).

Gratitude journaling: Writing down things that you are grateful for can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts and emotions. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can improve overall well-being, reduce symptoms of depression, and increase resilience (Wood et al., 2010).

Laughter therapy: Laughter has been shown to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. Laughter therapy involves intentionally seeking out humor and laughter to promote relaxation and stress relief. Research has shown that laughter therapy can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance immune function (Bennett et al., 2003).

Mindful movement: Mindful movement practices such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong can help improve mental health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing mindfulness. Studies have shown that mindful movement practices can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression and enhance overall well-being (Saeed et al., 2016).