By SHARON McMAHON
Be Well
“Just because you don’t understand it doesn’t mean it isn’t so.”
– Lemony Snicket, The Blank Book
This quote could cover several different topics of interest, but as I strive to be non-political in my articles, we will look at this as it relates to another topic in the news of late: Mental health.
Most of us are aware of tennis star Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal from the French Open as she struggles with her mental wellness. We often assume that athletes such as Osaka and Michael Phelps should be “on top of the world” due to their prowess and acclaim. I am glad to see that people are speaking out and, hopefully, heard.
My column usually addresses physical well-being through exercise and nutrition – keeping our bodies in optimal condition through those endeavors. However, we cannot hope to obtain those goals of continual good health without addressing our mental wellness also. For many, many years the subject of mental wellness has been swept under the rug, never discussed in “polite society.” It is hopeful to see that is changing, though too slowly in my opinion.
In addition to Ms. Osaka’s comments, I was struck recently by a sense of “déjà vu” as it relates to some personal reflections. I have enjoyed many years of ongoing relationships with many of my high school friends since we grew up in a small town – Noblesville – and graduated from Noblesville High School. We played together in grade school, spent summers swimming at Forest Park, riding bikes around town (there was little traffic) and attending birthday and then slumber parties growing up. A small group of us, about six to eight, depending on who is available, meet occasionally for a meal (dinner and wine has segued into breakfast…) and last week four of us were able to enjoy breakfast together.
As we were sitting there talking, I had a clear vision of each of the other three as teenagers, with myself included. I saw each one as the 15-year-old friend from 1965, as we were laughing about some of the slumber parties and how we would have the serious “boy talks” in our jammies and hair rollers; and now grandchildren and prescriptions are our conversation staples!
Sitting at that breakfast table last week with me was A., with her perfect hair still (!), K., with her dry sense of humor still going strong, and L., as funny and easy-going as ever. (My own 15-year-old image was one of permed hair, glasses and braces, complete “nerdom.”) Find your own fun and joyful memories, wherever those may be, and bring them out to enjoy them once again.
Where am I going with all this? A wise person once told me to think about a time in my life where I felt the happiest, content, and joyful; to find a photo of myself from that time period, frame it, and keep it on display where I will see it every day. I have done that. It does not matter if that is you at 5, 10, 15, or whatever age works for you, it will give you a feeling of peace when you see that person in the frame. You are still that person and you deserve to find your joy and your inner contentment regardless of events and circumstances surrounding you.
Your mental health and well-being are a critical part of your overall health. No matter how many miles you walk or run, weights you lift, vegetables you eat, or supplements you take, you will only achieve your optimal health when you work on your mental wellness.
It is a challenging time in our country and in our world. Turn off your phone, your social media, your television, and even your radio (unless it is the “oldies” station!) and give yourself the gift of enjoying nature, volunteering to help others, calling old friends, listening to music, whatever brings peace into your life. Although I cannot write you a “prescription,” I will share my own prescription with you – a good belly laugh, at least once each day! Watch a great comedy (old SNL reruns are great) read, listen to, or share a funny story with a friend; laughter will release those all-important endorphins and help you to deal with any burdens or issues.
If you feel that you need professional help to be your best self, reach out to find that help. If you or someone you love is in any danger of harm, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Peace and Blessings …
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.