If you’ve lost motivation to work, are feeling less productive, or find yourself worrying, feeling anxious, or stressed — you might need to take a mental health day (or a couple of days).
Just like taking a sick day when our bodies are under the weather, taking a mental health break allows for some time to rest our mental well-being.
Here are some ways you can recharge your batteries in TBAY.
🌱 Get some fresh air
Go for a walk around Old Southeast by Lassing Park or take a personal canoe journey through the Hillsborough River at Lettuce Lake Park — rent your vessel here. Or fully immerse yourself in nature on a paddle board expedition around Pass-A-Grille, using PADL’s vessel vending machine. And to get as far away as you can from it all and get a change in perspective — hike Cockroach Bay Preserve’s rocky mound for a far-out view of the Tampa skyline.
Not looking to do something active? We hear you. Grab a book, get a Cali Burrito at Red Mesa Mercado (1100 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg) and have a picnic at the always beautiful Vinoy and North Shore Park Beach for the sunrise or sunset. Pro tip: while you’re there, keep track of your emotions on the How We Feel app’s digital calendar.
🎨 Do something creative
One way to decompress is by seeking new creative inspiration or trying something new. Check out some of the music-making workshops at School of Rock, or sign up for a painting class at Painting with a Twist (the twist is alcohol, but you don’t have to partake if you don’t want to). Both have locations around Tampa and St. Pete.
Take some time to zen out at HOTWORX.
Photo by @gina_salvatore and @hotworxsouthtampa
🏋️ Get in a workout
It can be difficult to fit in active time during the work week, so taking some time to get your body moving can be a great way to utilize time during your mental health day. If you’re looking to really break a sweat, try out a spin class at CycleBar Hyde Park. Yoga is also a great option — try HOTWORX (2208 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa) or The Collective (327 11th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, Suite 201).
Whatever you choose, it’s important to work on your breathing. Take a moment to inhale through your nose and out through your mouth. The five senses method of coping with anxiety is a valuable tool as well.
Looking for additional information, resources, or tools to help navigate with and learn about mental health? Check out these mental health resources around Hillsborough and Pinellas.
