Some you may have noticed that I make a lot of references to #dofunshitalways, so I thought I would explain.  It is more than a catchy hashtag; it is a philosophy being developed by a friend whose goal is to help bridge the gap between mental and physical health. This bridge can make all the difference in the world; at home, at your workplace, and in your relationships.

Do Fun Shit Always doesn’t mean do dumb stuff.  It is about getting off the couch and putting down the remote; to go do something for yourself; something you enjoy doing.  It can range from the extreme to the not so extreme. Maybe you aren’t able to wave surf, skydive, or snowboard, but you can take time to go for a walk in the park, ride a bike, or just get outside.  Anything to get the blood flowing while engaging the brain.  

Too many people fall into the mundane routine of working from 9 to 5, without realizing that there are several hours in the day remaining to do fun stuff.  Although doing fun shit is not going to resolve all your issues; exercise and active hobbies are a good place to start.

I thought I would pass along a few tidbits that I have learned over the years.  

First, I have found that when faced with a problem, doing something physically active will stimulate the brain, which in turn with strengthen your problem-solving skills.  In part because you are engaged in another activity (essentially, taking a problem-solving break) and not spending every brain byte focusing on why the dog ate your sock again.  When you are done working out, you will be amazed at some of the resolutions that you come up with; like, not leaving your fucking socks on the floor and putting them in the hamper.

Second, you have to set some priorities – you can’t care about everything in the world.  If you are asking, what the hell does that mean?  Please read an incredible book by Mark Manson, “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.”  Don’t be put off by the title.  It does not mean to give up all hope, it means that if you are constantly in mental crisis over every single problem, you are going to drive yourself to the point of shutting down because you cannot solve every problem.  You have to set boundaries and solve those things you can control.  In other words, you only have so many give a fucks in life, choose them wisely.  

Third, for every challenge – there is a solution – which will inevitably identify another challenge.  This is true in all aspects of life, including your physical health and mental health.  It is important that you build a solid bridge between the two.  Life is a blessing, not an obligation – challenge yourself, do something that takes you out of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to fail, brush yourself off and do something fun, that will stimulate both mind and body. #dofunshitalways.