A lot of us do not pay enough attention to the importance of mental health but trust me, a sound mind is as important as a sound body! Mental health includes feelings of happiness, contentment, confidence and engagement with the world.

Here are 5 basic steps that you can take to ensure your mental well-being:

• Connect: Do you connect with the people around you—your family and friends? Spend time developing these relationships. Talk, listen and engage.
• Be active: Take a walk, go cycling or play a game every evening. It will help release the stress. Pick an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your life!
• Keep learning: When was the last time you tried something new? Tried a new sport or took up a new hobby? Challenge yourself, set a new goal every week and do your best to reach it!
• Give before you receive: When was the last time you did something nice for a relative, friend or a stranger? Making someone happy requires no big gifts. A simple act of kindness will do. Lend a helping hand or a listening ear to someone who needs it.
• Take notice: Are you aware of the world around you? Stop and ask yourself how you’re feeling. Take your time with things, savor the moment.