After enduring the stress that was 2020, make sure practicing self-care tops your list of resolutions in 2021. Not sure where to start? Made in PGH has recommendations on how to make sure that you prioritize your health in the New Year.
Mental
Keep Connecting With Others
Tired of Zoom, but missing social interactions? Keeping in touch with your loved ones is important for your mental well being, but virtual get-togethers can feel lackluster to the real thing. Next time, try doing an activity with your loved ones to help make it feel more like the real thing. Virtually tour museums, play online word games ( like Scattergories), or attend a virtual Pittsburgh Cultural Trust show. Planning activities for virtual get togethers will help bring a sense of community for all involved, a powerful tool in boosting one’s mood during this time.
Mental Health Resources
Checking in on yourself is challenging, no doubt. It can be hard to know how you’re feeling about work, relationships, everyday problems, or anything in between when you’re so close to the subject matter – yourself! Breaking down the stigma, seeking help from others is an act of self-care that can reap rewards. If you don’t know where to start or what exactly you need, take a look at our list of the mental health resources in Pittsburgh. Ranging from traditional therapy to life coaches, find someone who can help you prioritize your mental health.
Physical
Must-Try Gyms
Get your endorphins flowing by trying out a new workout in the New Year. Exercise not only helps keep you healthy, but can act as an escape from other stressors in your life. If you’re not sure where to start, here are 5 gyms to check out for your new fitness routine. Keep in mind that everyone at one point starts at the beginning – enjoy the journey while building up your physical health.
All are practicing and enforcing COVID-19 safety measures.
Pittsburgh’s Biking and Walking Trails
More comfortable working out inside? Take care of your physical and mental health by stepping away from screens to enjoy the great outdoors. The Pittsburgh area is home 1,500 acres of parks ready to explore. Plan your visit today – from Frick Park to Mellon Park, there is a place for every Yinzer. If you’re afraid of the cold, bundle up with locally made accessories to keep you warm until your blood gets pumping.
Spiritual
Stretch and Pause
Yoga is known to not only be good for your physical health, but can help improve your energy levels and emotions. Cultivating a yoga practice can help create not only an escape from everyday stressors, but can act as a means to practice daily positive affirmations. Amazing Yoga, a Pittsburgh based studio with multiple locations, has moved their classes online during the pandemic. You can stream or access on-demand classes, based on your availability and skill level, to try out a yoga class from the comfort of your own home.
Take a Deep Breath
In today’s world, where work and home can blend together, make sure you give yourself a moment to breathe. Meditation gives you a chance to collect your thoughts during the day, grounding yourself after any moments of stress ( or to prevent them!). Check out the following classes ( in-persoon and virtual) to get introduced to the world of mediation:
- Yoga Bliss & Meditation – Om Lounge
- Meditation class – Village Center for Holistic Therapy
- Guided Meditation and Reiki Healing – Salt of the Earth
If you try out any of our recommendations, let us know @MadeInPGH.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.