Mental Health Awareness Week: Simple (and Free!) Ways to Support Your Mind – Inspired by Life in Japan
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re taking a moment to pause, reflect, and share a few simple – and free – ways to boost your mental wellbeing. Whether you’re new to Japan or have called it home for years, the good news is that there are countless small actions that can have a big impact on your mental health. Here are four that we love – and that you can find right here in Japan.
1. Move Your Body – Run Tokyo, Run! 🏃♀️
Exercise is one of the most powerful natural mood-boosters out there. You don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment – just a pair of shoes and a little motivation. Japan’s cities, parks, and riversides are perfect for getting those endorphins flowing.
In Tokyo, the Tamagawa and Arakawa rivers offer peaceful running routes, and even the urban jungle has its green escapes like Yoyogi Park or the Imperial Palace loop. Or, if you’re feeling bold – why not challenge yourself with something a little different?
👉 Next week, Mobal is lacing up for the Tokyo Tower Climb in support of TELL, a mental health lifeline in Japan. It’s a unique chance to take part in something active, meaningful, and memorable. Learn more and join us: Tokyo Tower Climb
2. Find Stillness – Japan’s Meditation Tradition 🧘
Japan has a long, rich tradition of mindfulness and meditation, from Zen Buddhism to forest bathing (shinrin-yoku). It doesn’t take much to start – just a quiet space, a few minutes, and your breath.
Try a walk through a local temple garden early in the morning, or sit quietly in a park under a tree. Apps like Insight Timer or Headspace can help if you’re new to meditation – and it’s free to begin.
Pro tip: Many temples offer free or low-cost meditation sessions. Just search for “zazen” in your area!
3. Practice Gratitude – Starting With You 💙
Gratitude has been shown to boost happiness and reduce stress – and we’ve got plenty to be thankful for.
At Mobal, we’re deeply grateful to our customers. Your support allows us to do something we believe in: give back. Our profits go to charity projects that provide education, food, and support to those in Malawi. Learn more about our mission: Our Vision
We also have a long-standing partnership with TELL Japan, and we were one of the first providers to make calls to their Lifeline completely free.
4. Connect with Community – You’re Not Alone 👯
Being an expat in Japan can be exciting – but also lonely. The good news? There are vibrant, welcoming communities out there waiting for you.
Look for language exchanges, Facebook groups, or meetups for expats in your city. And don’t forget, your SIM or WiFi plan can help you stay connected to friends and family back home when you need that emotional reset.
At Mobal, we’re proud to be part of the expat community in Japan – not just through our services, but by helping you feel more at home here.
You’re Not Alone – And You’re Doing Great
No matter where you are on your mental health journey, just know that you’re not alone. Whether it’s taking a walk, trying a meditation, joining a community group, or simply pausing to reflect on the good – small steps add up.
And if you ever need someone to talk to, TELL Lifeline is here for you: 0800-300-8355.
Take care of yourself this week – and every week. 💙
