Lockdown was pretty hard on everyone. Several parts of India still observe lockdown. While initially we played Ludo online or some other group game online later on everything became little dreary. We had so much time at our disposal and it all seemed new. Little did we know how it could affect our mental health drastically. Life during pandemic has become difficult not only financially but also has taken a toll on your physical as well as mental health. While physical health issue is seen and acted upon, no one addresses mental health concerns. The mental well-being of an individual is just as important as the physical one. Here are some of the ways that will aid you in taking care of your mental health.

1. Have a to-do list and check each task off:   Make sure to have a to-do list for everyday. We may have a lot of things to do and to get it done this would for sure help. It assists you by keeping track of your chores and you have better chance at not putting them off.
2. Exercise everyday:   Regular physical activity can help your mood and decease anxiety. It increases production of endorphins which helps you think positively. So get high on endorphins!
3.  Set up a workspace: If you're working from home, then work can be really stressful as there's no change of environment. Make sure to set up your workplace. Set the desk and don't change it. Think of it as your office space only and take breaks at specific intervals.
4. Meditate daily: Meditation works wonders. It increases your self-awareness and helps you in dealing with your emotions. It improves your mood and helps with stress, depression.
5. Spend time in the terrace: If you have a terrace then spend some time looking at sky. Catch some beautiful shades during the sunset. It can even be therapeutic. If you had a desire to try gardening, now is the time. Buy some plants for both indoors and terrace. You will have an amazing time tending to them.
6. Write a journal: Start writing a journal. Penning down your thoughts can prove to be of great help in identifying your fears, concerns and controlling them. It can even stop your over-thinking. Its a great tool to manage your anxiety and bring perspective.
7. Better sleep schedule: Having a proper sleep schedule is very important in taking care of both your mind and body. A healthy sleep schedule is a must for a sound mental health.
8. Don't hesitate to ask help: If things don't get better then also its fine. Never blame yourself. But ask for help. It's totally okay to ask your family or friends for help. If that's uncomfortable then seek a professional. Consulting a professional is always a great option with or without severe symptoms. There are web-based programs or apps also in improving mental health.

Please try following these practices. And also never take your mental well-being lightly. Ensure that your friends and family are also doing the same. I hope this helps you in some way. Please know that mental health is not a destination but a process. It takes time, have faith and patience. And believe in the process.