Pause, Breathe, Shower: Simple Ways to Care for Your Mental Health

When life feels overwhelming, our minds and bodies send signals—tight shoulders, racing thoughts, heavy fatigue. These are signs that our nervous system is out of balance. But the good news is that even small actions can make a big difference in helping us reset.

Taking care of your mental health doesn’t always require therapy sessions or big life changes (though those can help, too). Sometimes, it starts with simple, everyday practices that help calm your nervous system and bring you back to center.

Here are a few quick ways to regulate your nervous system when stress is high:

• Deep breathing: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4. Do this for just a few minutes to activate your body’s relaxation response.

• Movement: A short walk, some gentle stretching, or even shaking out your hands and legs can help release tension and move stress through your body.

• Grounding: Focus on what you can see, hear, and feel. Touch something with texture, sip something warm, or name five things around you to bring your mind into the present moment.

• Hydration and food: Your brain needs fuel to regulate emotions. Eating a snack and drinking water can make a surprising difference.

• A hot shower: This one is simple—but powerful. Studies have shown that showering can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), increase circulation, and improve mood. Warm water on your skin helps activate your parasympathetic nervous system, signaling that you’re safe and can relax.

  

  
  

That’s one reason we believe so deeply in our work at SHARE Community. For those experiencing homelessness, access to a hot shower isn't just about hygiene—it’s about healing. It’s about restoring dignity, calming the body, and making space for peace, even if just for a few minutes.

So far this year, we have provided over 500 showers to our unhoused neighbors. That’s 500 moments of relief. Moments of warmth. Moments of being human.

Your mental health matters—no matter your circumstances. And if a hot shower can make that kind of difference, imagine what it means to someone who hasn’t had one in weeks. That’s why we do what we do.

Take care of yourself. Pause. Breathe. And when you can—take that shower.

*You can help drive our mission forward by donating here.