When we have difficult life experiences, our bodies and minds can respond by getting stressed and shut-down. It’s much harder to live a happy life in that kind of state.
As well as getting professional support for our mental health, there are many things we can do by ourselves and with family and friends to help us feel better and stay well.
The ideas shared in Amiko Cards come from many people’s experiences and lots of research on what works.
Look after yourself
See all the cards in this suit here
We all know what it feels like to be tense and disconnected from our bodies, and how different we feel when we’re relaxed.
Taking good care of our physical health through learning to notice what our bodies need, getting rest, exercise and time outdoors, and eating and drinking healthily are all valuable skills in staying well.
Connect
See all the cards in this suit here
When we are overwhelmed by life, we can shut down our minds and hearts.
This can leave us feeling empty and finding it hard to connect with ourselves or other people and the wider world.
Focusing on building a sense of connection with ourselves and others can really help us to feel more ourselves again.
Get clear
See all the cards in this suit here
When we’re stressed, things can feel overwhelming, out of control and hard to manage.
When we step back and get a different perspective, it can help us to get clear about what needs to be done.
Then, by starting to tackle things one small step at a time, we can help ourselves to feel more in control and hopeful again.
Express yourself
See all the cards in this suit here
When we have lots of difficult feelings such as sadness, fear or anger, it’s very natural to try and protect ourselves by keeping these hidden from others and from ourselves.
Finding safe ways to notice, express and work with these emotions can help us to make room for other feelings like happiness, peace and trust.