It is estimated that one in three Americans suffer from at least one mental health issue, but research shows that women are at a much higher risk to struggle with a mental health disorder throughout her lifetime than men. Here are a few ways to increase your mental wellness.
1. Talk to your physician
As a first step, talk to your primary care physician about your mental health goals and suggested screenings. He or she will be able to help you form an initial plan and refer you to any specialists as necessary.
2. Start exercising
Not only will exercise improve your overall health, but exercise also releases endorphins, the feel-good brain chemicals that instantly improve your mood. Talk to your physician before starting any new exercise routine.
3. Explore meditation
Meditation has the power to calm the mind, open the heart, and heal the soul. Sounds like it’s worth a shot, right? Start small. Set aside 3 minutes for meditation. Concentrate on your breath.
4. Up your sleep
The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep for adults. Sleep is critical in maintaining mental wellness and can significantly impact your ability to regulate moods and process emotional information and experiences. If you are not getting the recommended amount of sleep, try going to bed 10 minutes earlier each night and gradually building up to the 7 to 9 hours of recommended sleep.
5. Practice gratitude
Did you know that expressing gratitude is related to your self-esteem and well-being? So, look at the bright side and thank the universe for the things that make you happy – everything from your dog to a good cup of coffee.
And, remember, if you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, unable to sleep, irritable or hopeless, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.
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(AP) — Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Sunday and predicted six more weeks of wintry weather, his top-hatted handlers announced to a raucus, record-sized crowd at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania.
Phil was welcomed with chants of “Phil, Phil, Phil,” and pulled from a hatch on his tree stump shortly after sunrise before a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club read from a scroll in which he boasted: “Only I know — you can’t trust A.I.”
At approximately 2:45 P.M. on Saturday, February 1st, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) responded to a reported structure fire in the 100 block of Aquia Creek Road, near Aquia Creek. Callers reported a neighboring residence on fire, and first arriving units marked the scene less than 10 minutes later and confirmed fire and smoke coming from the rear and roof of a single-family residence.
Due to a lack of hydrants in the area, crews had to utilize rural water operations to shuttle water to the scene. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and bring it under control in approximately an hour, despite the roof collapsing.
The residence was not occupied at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. The fire is under routine investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. SCFR units were assisted on scene by Quantico Fire and Emergency Services.
(AP) — Preliminary data from the deadliest U.S. aviation accident in nearly 25 years showed conflicting readings about the altitudes of an airliner and Army helicopter when they collided near Reagan National Airport in Washington, killing everyone aboard both aircraft, investigators said Saturday.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
