May Your Mental Health Thrive: Yoga, Bees, and Star Wars Wisdom for Self-Care
May 01, 2025
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to honor the importance of caring for our minds as much as we care for our bodies. And while mental health is a serious topic, that doesn’t mean self-care can’t be playful, delicious, or even nerdy (looking at you, Star Wars fans). Whether you’re sipping tea, celebrating bees, or making the perfect apple pie, May is all about finding small, meaningful ways to recharge, reflect, and reconnect.
So grab your lightsaber - or your yoga mat - and let’s dig into why mental health matters and how to nurture it this month.
Why Mental Health Matters (and Yes, Tuna Fish can be Self-Care)
Why Mental Health is the Real MVP:
Mental health impacts everything - your relationships, work, sleep, and even your ability to enjoy tuna fish sandwiches. Taking care of your mental health is like tuning up your car: it keeps you running smoothly and prevents breakdowns later.
Mental Health Awareness Month Ideas:
- Learn the Signs: I encourage everyone to learn about mental health - the real research,not just the “wellness” industry and media versions. You can also research common mental health conditions so you can spot them in yourself and others, not just call out acronyms without knowing what they mean (OCD, I’m talking to you!).
- Normalize the Conversation: Share your experiences (or just a supportive post) on social media. Everyone has them - including me!
- Seek Support: Therapy isn’t just for crises - it’s like an emotional fitness class for your brain.
Why Tuna Fish is Self-Care:
Tuna may not scream “luxury,” but it’s packed with omega-3s, which are proven to support brain health. Plus, making yourself a quick, tasty sandwich is a small act of kindness for your future self. World Tuna Day is May 2!
Tuna Fish-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Upgrade Your Sandwich: Add avocado, pickles, or a sprinkle of paprika for a gourmet twist.
- Try a Tuna Salad Bowl: Toss it over greens with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh lunch.
- Make It Mindful: Slow down and savor each bite - it’s a mini meditation session.
Reflective Question:
What’s one small step you can take to prioritize your mental health this month?
Star Wars & the Art of Balance
Why Star Wars is Self-Care:
“Do or do not, there is no try.” Yoda’s wisdom isn’t just for Jedi - it’s a reminder to focus on what matters and let go of perfectionism. Watching Star Wars (or any favorite movie) can also be a form of escapism, which is great for mental health in moderation. Star Wars Day is May 4th…may the force be with you.
Star Wars-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Movie Marathon: Grab popcorn and immerse yourself in the galaxy far, far away.
- Channel the Force: Meditate on balance, gratitude, or whatever you need to center yourself.
- Reframe Your Inner Villain: What’s your Darth Vader moment, and how can you turn it into growth?
Why Cinco de Mayo is Self-Care:
Cinco de Mayo is about resilience and community, both of which are key to mental health. Celebrate by connecting with others or enjoying a vibrant meal that makes you smile.
Cinco de Mayo-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
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Cook a New Recipe: Try making homemade guacamole, tacos, or enchiladas.
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Host a Fiesta: Invite friends for a laid-back evening of food, music, and fun.
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Dance it Out: Blast some salsa music and let loose in your living room.
Reflective Question:
What’s one way you can incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine?
Mother’s Day & Apple Pie
Why Mother’s Day is Self-Care (Even If You’re Not a Mom):
Mother’s Day is about honoring care and connection. Whether you’re celebrating your own mom, yourself, or a nurturing figure in your life, it’s a reminder to give and receive love.
Mother’s Day-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Write a Thank-You Note: Send gratitude to someone who’s supported you.
- Pamper Yourself: Take a bubble bath or treat yourself to a massage.
- Spend Quality Time: Share a meal or activity with someone you care about.
Why Apple Pie is Self-Care:
Apple pie is more than dessert - it’s a metaphor for life’s sweetness and comfort. Baking one can be meditative, and eating it? Pure joy. National Apple Pie Day is May 13th.
Apple Pie-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Bake from Scratch: Enjoy the process of peeling, mixing, and smelling it bake.
- Savor with Ice Cream: Because sometimes life calls for a little extra indulgence.
- Make Mini Pies: Share them with friends or neighbors to spread kindness.
Reflective Question:
How can you show care and appreciation for yourself or others this week?
Bees, Tea, Wine, Hamburgers, and Memorial Day
Why Bees Are Self-Care:
Bees are tiny, tireless reminders of teamwork and perseverance. Plus, they make honey, which is basically nature at its finest. World Bee Day is May 20th.
Bee-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Plant Bee-Friendly Flowers: Help the bees and brighten your garden.
- Try Bee Pollen or Manuka Honey: Add it to smoothies or yogurt for a nutrient boost.
- Pause for Gratitude: Take a moment to appreciate the small things, like honey in your tea.
Why Tea is Self-Care:
Tea is warm, comforting, and grounding - basically a hug in a cup. It’s also an opportunity to pause, breathe, and reset. International Tea Day is May 21!
Tea-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Tea Meditation: Focus on the smell, taste, and warmth of your tea as you drink it.
- Explore New Blends: Try matcha, chai, or herbal teas you’ve never had before.
- Host a Tea Party: Invite friends for an afternoon of connection and calm.
Why Wine and Hamburgers Are Self-Care:
Sometimes, self-care is as simple as enjoying your favorite foods (guilt-free and with joy). Whether it’s a juicy burger or a glass of wine, savoring the flavors you love is an act of self-compassion. National Wine Day is May 25th, Hamburger Day is May 28th.
Memorial Day and Mental Health:
Memorial Day is a time to honor sacrifice and reflect on resilience. It’s also a reminder to connect with loved ones, share stories, and find strength in community. Memorial Day is May 26th - which is also National Sunscreen Day!
Memorial Day-Themed Self-Care Ideas:
- Visit a Memorial: Reflect on the courage and sacrifices of others.
- Host a Cookout: Celebrate life and connection with good food and good company.
- Journal on Resilience: What challenges have you overcome, and what did they teach you?
Reflective Question:
What small pleasures bring you joy, and how can you savor them more deeply?
Resources & Links
- April Awesomeness: Grilled Cheese, Trees, & How to Be Your Own Superhero
- March Towards Mindfulness - 2025
- February Self Care - 2025
- Joyful January Self Care - 2025
- Self-Care for Humans, Not Algorithms - December 2024
- Real Self-Care by Dr. Poojma Lakshmin – An insightful read on authentic self-care practices.
- Simple Practice: How to Create an Affordable and Sustainable Self-Care Plan
