Active August calendar. Image supplied by Mentally Healthy WA.

Monday: “At the end of the day reflect on three things you are grateful for.”

Tuesday: “Watch a documentary or TED Talk from around the world.”

I decided to focus on self-improvement, and found a TED Talk I’d never watched before. I’d been getting anxious lately about my ability to perform under pressure. I do a lot of presentations with work, and I often find myself worrying that I’ll freeze, so I found a talk titled ‘Why we choke under pressure and how to avoid it’. It was really interesting, and I found myself with tangible steps to ensure that doesn’t happen.

But the most important discovery was that it's not just me. Everyone has that fear. It’s normal, it’s human and it doesn’t mean you’re fundamentally inadequate.

Wednesday: “Take regular breaks today. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes.”

Thursday: “Unplug two hours before bedtime to get a good night’s sleep.”

Friday: “Get creative.”

At first, I’d wondered if they would just exacerbate my stress, just another thing to add to my list of things to do.

These little strategies are now tucked away in my arsenal, ready for whenever I feel the need to take a deep, long breath.

In fact, I might try new things a little more often.

Active August is all about trying new things to improve your mental health and wellbeing, whether it be physical, social, mental or spiritual.For more ideas and activities around your local area, visit Mentally Healthy WA's Act-Belong-Commit Activity Finder.