127 Miles of Therapy

So this weekend I took a road trip by myself in my boyfriend's '96 Honda Accord. The 22 year-old machine makes a loud rattling noise when you turn the AC on, the MPH gage decides when it wants to work, and the driver window might go up and down if you're lucky. In short, it's a really good car (he's in finance so he's a bit frugal but that's part of why I love him). Regardless, it gets you from point A to point B; which in my case was from Jacksonville to Dunnellon. It's not a far drive, about 2 and a half hours, 127 miles, but it's worth every minute because on the other side is my 92 year-old-grandma who we call "Memo" (pronounced me-mo).

To get the trip started, I packed my weekend bag, got Starbucks, and hit the road.

It was honestly the best two and a half hours I've had in awhile. The temperature was just right. There were pink and purple flowers blooming on the side of the freeway. The oldies music station way playing just the right songs. And the visit with my grandma was, as it always is, just wonderful.

Today, I just wanted to share with you how important it is for moments like these. You mental health is just as important (one can argue even more important) than your physical health. In moments when you are stressed, it's hard to remember that there are tips and tricks that can help you feel better. We are all allow to feel other emotions than happy, in facts it's healthy and what makes us human, but it's good to not let these emotions take over you and defined you. I am in the process of reading a really great book that simplifies how to live your best life, it is called meQuilibrium: 14 Days to Cooler, Calmer, and Happier, by Jan Bruce, Andrew Shatte, Ph.D., Adam Perlman, M.D., M.P.H. I suggest you preview this reading for a taste of the goodness. One skill that I've learned and already started applying is: becoming conscious of your emotions. So you know when someone cuts you off when your driving and your first reaction is maybe to get mad? Instead of getting mad right away, ask yourself if that emotion is warranted? Does this emotion bring value? Can I rationalize the situation?

Let's apply it:

- Is this emotion warranted? Is it really that big of deal, in the big scheme of things, that this person cut me off? No, it really isn't.

- Does this emotion bring value? Does getting mad fix the situation or make it different? Nope. It actually makes it worse.

- Can I rationalize the situation? Maybe this person didn't mean to cut me off. Maybe they didn't see me. Maybe they're rushing to pick up a loved one. Maybe they're running late to an important meeting. They're human and we all make mistakes.

I will leave you with this website that will hopefully help you boost your mental health. Maybe pick one or two things to focus on this week. Do some trial and error. The best part is, testing the waters will not harm you. There are only benefits to be discovered.

Enjoy!

#roadtrip #carride #stress #mentalhealth