When we think of improving mental health, we often think of therapy, mindfulness, or journaling. While these tools are powerful, many everyday habits — completely unrelated to psychology — can have a surprising impact on how we feel mentally and emotionally.

Here are five non-mental-health-related habits that can help improve your mental wellbeing:

1. Tidying Up Your Space

A clean, organized space can create a sense of calm and clarity. Simply making your bed, clearing your desk, or decluttering your closet can reduce mental overwhelm and create a peaceful environment that supports emotional balance.

Why it helps: Visual chaos often leads to mental chaos. A tidy space cues your brain to feel safe and in control.

2. Getting Sunlight Every Morning

Spending just 10–20 minutes in natural light each morning can regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improve your mood. Morning sunlight boosts serotonin, the “feel good” hormone, and helps regulate melatonin for better sleep at night.

Bonus: When possible, step outside barefoot for a grounding effect — also known as "earthing" — which some studies suggest can reduce stress and inflammation.

3. Drinking More Water

Hydration plays a big role in brain function. Even mild dehydration can negatively affect your mood, memory, focus, and overall energy levels. When the brain lacks adequate water, it struggles to maintain optimal performance, which can contribute to irritability, fatigue, and brain fog.

Try this: Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day and aim to drink at least 8 cups of water daily.

4. Moving Your Body Regularly

You don’t need a gym membership or fancy gear — just get moving in a way that works for you. Whether it’s dancing in your kitchen, stretching between meetings, walking around the block, or cleaning the house, it all counts. Especially if you sit at a desk for most of the day, regular movement boosts blood flow, releases feel-good endorphins, and sharpens your focus.

Hint: 30 minutes is the goal, but even 10 is better than none.

5. Spending Time with Family or Friends

Connecting with people you care about can significantly reduce stress and boost your mood. Whether it's a short conversation, a shared meal, or simply being in the same space, social connection nurtures a sense of safety, belonging, and joy.

Fun fact: Meaningful social interactions trigger the release of oxytocin, which helps lower cortisol — the stress hormone.

Final Thought

Before seeking help from a mental health professional, start by nurturing your daily habits. Open a window, step outside for a few minutes, hydrate, tidy up your space, or pause to breathe.

These small choices can create meaningful shifts in how you feel. Build a strong foundation for your mental health, one simple action at a time.