How our Inspire team members look after their Mental Health.
It's World Mental Health Day, and in 2023, there really is nothing more important than your mental health. Health (both mental + physical!) = wealth. If Covid taught us anything, it's definitely that.
Mental health has always been a central part of Inspire's DNA. We're all about the magic movement does for your mind - we move to feel.
We've asked our Inspire team to share the things they do every day to keep their mental health in check; how they unwind, de-stress, and put themselves first. A little bit of self-care goes a long way!
But first, here's 5 key mental health stats you should know.
44% of people experience a mental health condition at some point in their lifetime.
1 in 5 Australian's have experienced one in the past 12 months.
1 in 3 Australian's have anxiety disorder.
Suicide is the #1 cause of death for Australian's aged 15-44.
8.6 Australian's pass away every day by suicide (more than double the road accident toll).
Sources: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023 + Lifeline Australia, 2023
Want to find out more? Click the link here.
So, how do we look after our Mental Health?
Alex - Teneriffe Box Instructor
"So without writing a book, the things I do to take care of my mental health are:
Inspire (duh!) But actually getting into the studio, whether I'm working or training, has helped me so much. I don't know where I'd be without it!
Therapy. There is literally no shame in it, and I am proud to admit I go. Just like I preach looking after our physical health, our mental health is just as important, and such an incredibly worthwhile investment in my mind #girlmath
Self care. I wind down by treating myself to a hair mask, face mask, a good book, and a cup of tea.
Catching up with friends for a walk and coffee does wonders for my mental health.
And of course, cuddling my dog Koda - it legit turns any bad mood into a good one. I swear by it!"
Bec - Teneriffe Front of House
"I try to look after my mental health by being optimistic, hopeful and strong... even in tough times, remembering that I can get through anything.
My places of true happiness are outdoors, and near the water. At the beach, on a boat, in the ocean, in the pool. Aqua therapy is my thing! 🏖🛶"
Morgan - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"What helps me unwind and de-stress is getting fresh air, and exploring outside.
If it's been a hectic week, I love escaping the city life with a few friends, and a packed lunch. Setting an early alarm and going on a hike, or swimming in the ocean. I think it's important to step away from the screens, and just enjoy being present on a beautiful day."
Ariel - Richmond Cycle Instructor
"Mental health is absolutely my top priority in my life, as I've struggled with many mental health battles in the past. No matter how busy I am, or how hectic life gets, I always ensure it's my main focus.
It's no secret that I train a LOT, and I've always said that I don't exercise to look a certain way, but to feel a certain way. Training is truly my therapy, and as someone with an extremely over-active mind, it's the one part of my day where the only thing I am focussed on is the present moment. It helps my anxiety and stress levels more than I can explain.
Besides training, my family, my doggies, and my partner are the things that keep me sane and grounded when life feels overwhelming. I have a family group chat that goes off at all hours of the day and night, and I know that if I ever need someone or something, they've got my back no matter what. And I'm very lucky that my fiancé is, in fact, a psychologist - it really makes it a lot easier, and I highly recommend having an in-house psych!"
Jessie - Teneriffe Front of House
"I look after my mental health by going on a morning walk and coffee with either my besties or boyfriend! Always sets me up for a great day."
Grace — Teneriffe Front of House
"Life is bloody hard some times and you really have to make the effort to be kind to yourself. Daily movement is a non-negotiable for me — walks, pilates and INSPIRE obviously topping the list. My night time routine has become a bit of a ritual for me and such a nice way of completely winding down and shutting off everything for the day. A fav is going to the beach whenever I can (it always heals me). Pisces girly needs that ocean energy!"
Courtney - Richmond Cycle Instructor
"I prioritise time for myself every single day - life can feel overwhelming otherwise. In teaching and instructing, it is all about sharing your energy with others, and you are constantly giving! I am interacting with little and big people all day, so I know how important it is for me to stop, just do my own thing, and rest! I need that reset every single day, so I can always offer my best self!
I know that getting outside and moving my body will always improve my mood. A simple walk in the sunshine and fresh air, with or without music, where I can just get lost in my own thoughts, always helps me reset. Getting into the studios is also a game changer! Exercise really is the most incredible endorphin hit!"
Sarah - Richmond Cycle Instructor
"Cuddle my dogs!"
Holly - Teneriffe Front of House
"I love taking a day offline, and just having it all to myself. Sleeping in, reading a good book, taking my dogs to the park, enjoying the sunshine, going to bed early. There's also nothing like a good clean to make me feel de-stressed and clear my mind. It's the little things."
Tyra - Teneriffe Front of House
"I look after my mental health by spending quality time with my friends and my partner - they are my biggest motivators and inspo! Another way is winding down by taking a nice bubble bath with a nice candle lit while listening to my fave podcast/music!"
Caitlin - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"I look after my mental health by connecting with my closest friends and family - on the good days, not just the bad ones! Obviously coming to class, whether it's to teach or just to train, is so important as it keeps me connected and moving my body - which has been the biggest game changer for managing my anxiety! One of my favourite ways to unwind after a big day is having a chill weeknight dinner with my girls, chatting, watching a movie, or playing a game!
Overall, I think it's connection that we need as people, and it's such a powerful source of healing!"
Sophia - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"Cooking with my mum, swimming in the ocean, no phone for an hour at least, eating good food, and a good skin care session is how I look after my mental health!"
Ryan - Richmond Cycle Instructor
"I take care of my mental health by striking a balance between taking time for me, and giving time for others. I try to be as intuitive as possible, and listen to my body when it's telling me to slow down because my battery is empty. Sometimes it's easy to fall into the habit of giving so much to others out of fear of letting them down, especially if you're a people pleaser!
I try to find that balance between doing the things that make me happy without worrying about others, and giving time to people around me. These kinds of things include a cozy movie night in with my boyfriend, taking a spin class where I ride up the back, or taking myself out to dinner. Something I often do to de-stress after a work day is give myself 5 minutes in the car when I get home to have a quick scroll, and listen to a quick tune before I head inside."
Josie - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"Seeing my friends and partner, hands down! Being surrounded by people is always a great reminder that even if the world feels like it's about to go up in flames, or if you're just feeling sad, you're not alone. My friends are great because when I get super stressy and snappy, they don't hold it against me - they will probably make fun of me for being grumpy, and get me a Diet Coke. It's a safe space. Having healthy relationships is one of the best things you can do for your mental health - at least it is for me!"
Camila - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"I like to remind myself that taking care of my body and mind is always my first priority. If I'm not giving myself the time to recharge, I know that I will not be feeling great or performing to my fullest. To fill my cup and take care of myself, I love to ground myself with nature, go outside and have a run or walk. I also de-stress after a long day by exercising and writing down my thoughts, or listening to my favourite music."
Esther - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"I bake and cook, because I believe that taking care of my mental health starts with having good physical health too, and it helps me to zone out. PLUS, you get a yummy treat out of it!"
Steph - Teneriffe Cycle Instructor
"My most helpful technique for taking care of my mental health is connecting with my friends and family. I love spending time outdoors, enjoying nature and the environment around me. My dog is also my secret weapon - thanks Cooper! It's so important to take time out of your day to focus on yourself."
Vita - Richmond Front of House
"I've been battling with my mental health since I can remember - I was an anxious child who needed things done a certain way, sort of thing. Almost three years ago, I hit an all time low mid-lockdowns and I decided enough was enough, and I started therapy. Best decision of my life. I cannot stress enough how important my weekly sessions became for me, and how much it affected all the relationships I have. I have created rituals and stress outlets that are healthy for myself and I barely recognise the person I was before.
I understand it is a pricey option, however it is amazing. The closest thing to it is working out. I hate being this person, but there is something about lifting weights, listening to a podcast, and having time to just focus on your body and be connected to it. Yoga is a new find for me, and it has been amazing.
Lastly, talking. This is the main thing for me as of late. Learning how to talk to others, and to yourself. Being truly kind, and a friend to others (and yourself) matters. I have daily FaceTime calls with my mum and grandma, and they are my whole world. Talking to people and understanding them continues to amaze me. I am very lucky to be able to go to therapy, but I would say talking to my grandma is essentially just as insightful at times."
The best ways to look after your mental health (according to the experts!)
1. Stay Active
Just 30 minutes of regular exercise can help boost your mood, and improve your mental health. An endorphin release, an escape from the day, and a mind reset all in one.
2. Eat Well + Drink Water
So simple - but so overlooked! A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy levels, and give your brain the power it needs to get through the day.
3. Prioritise Sleep
Sleep is literal magic! Good quality sleep has so many benefits for our mental health, including regulating mood, calming and restoring the body (decreasing cortisol levels!) and allowing our brain to process our emotions.
4. Connect
Stay connected with friends, family and a community who provide you with emotional support, and make you feel loved. There's nothing worse than feeling alone - and it's always good to be reminded that you're never alone!
5. Do Something You Love
We often get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but making the time to do something you love is so underrated. Whether it be something creative, listening to music, connecting with nature, practicing gratitude, baking - do something to bring you joy, and start or end your day feeling good.
6. Get Support
There's absolutely no shame in asking for help! Over 50% of Australian's seek professional help for their mental health - it's important to have somewhere to turn when you feel like you need it most.
Source: National Institute of Mental Health, 2023.
We're always here for you. Inspire is a safe space, and community - a place to work on you, for you. Come for your body, stay for your mind always.
