Oprah always inspires me to dream bigger, to manifest, to try and not lose hope in the dark times. I wanted to share her message of hope with you. She experienced so much darkness and so many setbacks but she wrote her own script. She believed in hope, in love and positivity and she worked hard.
That’s all any of us can do, to manifest our dreams in life with support from the universe/ higher power.
Keep going.
I definitely needed this today!
Eleanor x
(image: SIMBA)
Whether you struggle with your mental health or not, one way you can boost overall wellbeing, is to create a peaceful, calm bedroom environment. As well as keeping your room relaxed, tidy, clean and restful, you will want to look at your bed and bedding. This can all help to aid better sleep quality!
The team at SIMBA bedding and mattresses, gifted me one of their duvets to try, the Hybrid duvet. This luxurious 10.5 Tog duvet is suitable for year-round use. The Simba Renew Bio™ fill ensures wonderful, down-like softness and warmth, as well as superb breathability for a non-clammy feel; the fresh, cotton outer features their Stratos® temperature control tech to help dissipate excess heat. Perfect for me as I can get really warm at night and really good for the spring/ summer season! It felt super cosy and soft, and I had a great nights sleep.
Experts and SIMBA believe that when a bedroom has good feng shui, the nervous system can relax and we enter a place of safety, which helps promote a better night’s rest. Sleep hygiene and sleeping environment play a significant role in the quality of sleep we get at night.
They say,
‘Your bed is one of the most important pieces of furniture in your home with respect to your feng shui. When you’re sleeping, you’re classified as being in a passive yin state – and therefore more receptive to the vibrations around you. The bed is also the most private place in your home. It absorbs your qi and represents you.
We think we can help with that. Simba’s premium Bed Range allows you to create your ideal bed and choose all the specific features you need. with flexible under bed storage options, in single, double, king and super king. With 500 possible combinations, you can truly get the right look, colour, finish, storage and size for your space, and still have a bed that is unique to you.’
(image: Unsplash: By Matter, Made Better)
I love to have bedding that feels dreamy, induces calm and promotes a zen-like atmosphere. I feel so lucky to have tried my SIMBA duvet and know it will become a staple in my bedroom. As I struggle with anxiety, its so important that my bedroom is a place of calm and quiet, to help promote positive wellbeing. Good sleep often can mean good mental health and I can’t wait to curl up each night!
I was gifted a SIMBA duvet, in return for an honest review. This article contains non-sponsored links.
As human beings, we all have passions and interests that make us feel alive and fulfilled. However, sometimes, life throws us curveballs that can make it challenging to pursue those passions. Whether it’s a chronic illness, physical limitations, or mental health challenges, it’s essential to find ways to stay motivated and uplifted despite these limitations. Here, we’ll explore strategies and tips for pursuing new passions and staying motivated.
When you have limitations, it’s crucial to set realistic goals for yourself. This means taking into consideration your abilities and limitations and setting goals that are achievable for you. Break down your bigger goals into smaller, manageable steps to help you stay motivated and track your progress. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.
Instead of dwelling on what you can’t do, focus on what you can do. This shift in mindset can help you feel more empowered and motivated to pursue your passions. Find activities or hobbies that bring you joy and that align with your abilities. For example, if you love writing but have physical limitations, consider starting a blog or journal to express yourself creatively.
Having a strong support system is crucial when pursuing new passions despite limitations. Surround yourself with friends, family, or online communities who believe in you and encourage you to pursue your goals. These people can provide emotional support, motivation, and inspiration when you need it most.
Taking care of yourself is essential when you’re navigating limitations and pursuing new passions. Make time for self-care activities that help you feel grounded and nurtured. This could include things like meditation, exercise, journalling, or spending time in nature. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary for your overall well-being.
If you’re struggling to stay motivated or uplifted despite your limitations, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist, counselor, or coach can provide you with strategies and resources to manage your emotions and maintain your motivation. In addition, they can help you develop a pain management plan to address any physical limitations you may be experiencing.
Pursuing new passions and staying motivated despite limitations is possible with the right mindset and strategies. By setting realistic goals, focusing on what you can do, surrounding yourself with supportive people, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, you can overcome any obstacles in your way. Remember, you are capable of achieving greatness, no matter what challenges you may face!
(image: free image)
Personal hygiene habits are not only important for physical health, but they also play a significant role in maintaining mental health. Poor hygiene can cause distress, social isolation, and low self-esteem. Good personal hygiene practices, on the other hand, not only affect our physical appearance but also have various psychological benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the correlation between personal hygiene habits and mental health and the importance of establishing healthy habits.
Maintaining good personal hygiene practices, including showering daily, brushing teeth twice a day, and wearing clean clothes, can boost self-confidence and self-esteem. When we look good, we feel good, and this positive feeling can help us conquer our day’s challenges. On the other hand, poor hygiene can affect our self-esteem and lead to the avoidance of social situations, further impacting our mental health.
Establishing good personal hygiene habits also has a stress-reducing effect. When we invest in our hygiene and appearance, we feel more in control of our lives, hence reducing stress. Besides, the sweet smell of a well-scented shower gel, for instance, and the soothing feeling of fresh and clean clothes can calm our minds, reducing anxiety and worry.
Humans are social animals, and maintaining good personal hygiene habits plays a crucial role in social interaction. Poor hygiene, such as bad breath or body odor, can lead to social isolation and affect our mental health negatively. In contrast, when we smell good, look good, and feel clean, we attract positive attention and form stronger social bonds, boosting our mental well-being.
Establishing good personal hygiene habits also has a positive impact on our mental alertness. A clean and tidy space can improve our focus, making us more productive and efficient. Practicing good hygiene habits requires discipline and structure, which can help improve our cognitive function and increase our mental stamina.
Establishing good personal hygiene habits leads to positive self-talk, which improves our mental health. We can’t reinforce a positive self-image when we neglect our hygiene. Good hygiene is a way of showing care and respect for ourselves, and it gives us a reason to celebrate our achievements. Developing positive self-talk is essential for mental resilience and overall mental health.
Personal hygiene can be a challenge to maintain during a depressive episode. However, you can start by slowly implementing a routine that includes regular bathing, brushing your hair, and putting on clean clothes. When it comes to brushing your teeth, consider dental implants as a long-term solution to improve your oral health if they are needed. i not, carry on looking after yourself, as you matter. Remember to be patient with yourself, seek support from loved ones, and take small steps towards self-care each day. By focusing on your personal hygiene, you can improve your overall well-being and feel more confident in yourself.
To conclude, personal hygiene habits play a vital role in maintaining our physical and mental health. Poor hygiene can cause distress, isolation, and low self-esteem, while good hygiene habits can boost our self-confidence, reduce stress, improve social bonding, increase mental alertness, and promote positive self-talk.
As we go about our daily routine, we must make maintaining good hygiene habits a priority to reap these benefits and maintain our mental well-being.
(image: Pexels)
Our generation loves digital media and smartphones. While it can be highly beneficial in some ways, unfortunately it does come with negative associations, known to affect our mind and bodies more than we may know. Taking more time away from our screens can help to reduce stress, improve sleep quality, improve our relationships, free up more time for friends and family, and help with our personal growth.
As we have become very reliant on our phones and social media, sometimes it’s necessary to actively seek ways to reduce our time using them to help with our overall health.
Spend An Hour A Day On A Screen-Free Hobby
The first thing you should do to help you get respite from constant connectivity and to help your mental health is to spend an hour a day on a screen-free hobby. Identify an hour a day you have free consistently and set it aside for a hobby, whether that’s an hour before you start work or after work. Some examples are throwing on your favourite loungewear and spending an hour exercising, meeting a friend for a fun activity, reading, cooking, crafting, journalling, gardening, listening to a podcast, volunteering or going to explore a new place. If you have the time, on weekends or when you’re not working, try to increase this hour to a few.
Not only does this help you reduce your screen time, but you can focus on yourself and things you enjoy. You don’t have to spend money on this (or you of course can if you want to) and can get creative, whether they’re solo activities or you’re planning activities with a partner or family.
Use An App To Limit App Usage
If you struggle to put your phone down once you’ve picked it up to check what you need to, then you can use your phone to help you limit your phone usage. Most phones have a setting where you can set a limit on your phone, either for specific apps (e.g. you spend too much time on Instagram specifically), or for your phone in general, to flag you when you need to switch it off and have used your limit. Whilst you can switch this off if you need to, it’s not 100% effective of course, but it just provides that extra indication and reminder to help you break unhealthy cycles. Give this a try, it might not be fully effective when it’s the only measure you put in place, but when you combine it with other healthy alternatives to using your phone, it should help overall!
Eat Without Your Phone
Something else that can help you break the cycle of constant connectivity with the digital world is to make sure you don’t use your phone when you’re eating. There are studies that suggest when you eat food and scroll at the same time, a double hit of dopamine is released, so you naturally become more inclined to use your phone more and eat more food. This forms an unhealthy habit for both our mind and body, so keeping them separate is important. Meal times are a great opportunity to sit at a table, listen to your favourite album or have a catch up with friends, family or your partner, rather than keeping on scrolling.
(image: Unsplash: Micheile Henderson)
Leave Your Phone Out Of Your Bedroom
Something else that can really help you to reduce your digital use is to leave your phone out of your bedroom. Get yourself an alarm clock, then you have no reason to need your phone in there. Sitting and scrolling on our phones in bed is so tempting and it’s really easy to do, however it often means we go to sleep later than we should or would want to, as well as making it more difficult to actually sleep when you do put your phone down, as the blue light can disrupt your sleeping patterns and leave you awake for longer.
So, keeping your phone out of your room, for at least an hour before bed, helps to break this cycle. Replace your habit of scrolling on your phone with something relaxing that helps you to unwind, like reading a book or magazine for an hour, having a nice bath and doing your skincare, some meditation or just listening to music. You’ll find you sleep much better, helping you to feel energised and refreshed the next day, as well as helping your mental health.
This article was written by writer Daisy Moss.
(image: Daniel Odame: Unsplash)
When people lose a limb, it can be a traumatic experience that can take away their sense of self-confidence. It is essential to understand that it is normal to feel insecure and unsure after such an experience. But, there are ways to increase self-confidence and improve self-esteem. This blog will discuss five ways in which you can increase your self-confidence after losing a limb.
The first step towards gaining confidence is accepting your current situation. Losing a limb is a significant change, and it is essential to acknowledge the many emotions that come with it. It’s okay to feel scared, angry, or confused. Accepting these emotions is an essential step towards healing.
Focusing on your strengths and abilities rather than just your differences can be a powerful tool. Being an amputee does not define who you are as an individual. Instead, focus on your strengths and what you do best. Try to identify your qualities and character traits that make you unique. Remember that you are so much more than an individual with a missing limb.
A prosthetic leg, like those from Prosthetix Shop, can be an excellent tool to help you regain your confidence. A well-designed prosthesis that fits accurately will give you more mobility and independence. The prosthetic leg will help you to stand taller and improve your posture, which can help you to feel more confident. You can also experiment with different styles and colours that complement your body.
Taking care of your body is essential in increasing your self-confidence. A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can make you feel good not only physically but also mentally. Exercise can help you reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which can improve your overall mood and self-esteem.
Having a support system can help you remain positive and motivated on your journey towards increasing self-confidence. You can find support by attending support groups, seeking therapy, or talking to friends and family. Joining a support group of individuals going through the same experience can help you feel less alone and encourage you to regain your self-confidence.
Losing a limb can be a life-changing experience, but there is hope to regain the self confidence you once had. Accepting your situation, focusing on your strengths, building confidence with a prosthetic leg, taking care of your body, and finding support are all essential steps towards achieving this goal. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and there are many resources available to help you regain your confidence. With time, patience, and dedication, you can build a new sense of self-esteem and love the body you are in.
This article was written by Lizzie Weakley and contains an unsponsored link.
(image: Hannah Busing: Unsplash)
Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide. These disorders can have a devastating impact on a person’s physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life. If you think a friend may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. There are many different types of treatments available for eating disorders, and the right approach will depend on the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. This blog post will discuss some of the most effective eating disorder treatments to consider if you think a friend may be struggling.
Inpatient treatment is a highly specialised form of care that involves staying in a hospital or residential facility. This type of treatment is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing severe eating disorders and need intensive support and supervision.This inpatient eating disorder treatment may include medical monitoring, individual and group therapy, and nutritional counselling. This approach can be highly effective in helping individuals regain weight, learn new coping skills, and develop healthier eating habits.
Outpatient treatment is another option for individuals who are struggling with an eating disorder. This type of care involves visiting a mental health clinic or hospital on a regular basis for counselling and other therapies. Outpatient treatment may be appropriate for individuals who are in the early stages of recovery, or who have a less severe eating disorder. It can also be a good option for those who need to balance treatment with work or other responsibilities.
(CBT) Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating eating disorders. This approach focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to disordered eating behaviours. CBT can be used in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and may be combined with other types of therapies to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
(FBT) Family-based treatment (FBT) is a specialised approach to treating eating disorders in children and adolescents. This approach involves the entire family in the treatment process and is designed to help parents and caregivers support their child’s recovery. FBT has been shown to be highly effective in treating anorexia nervosa, and may also be used to treat other types of eating disorders.
Nutritional counselling can be an important component of eating disorder treatment. This type of therapy involves working with a registered dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan that meets the individual’s specific needs and goals. Nutritional counselling may be used in conjunction with other types of therapies, such as CBT, to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Eating disorders are complex and challenging to treat, but with the right help, recovery is possible. If you think a friend may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Inpatient and outpatient treatment, cognitive behavioural therapy, family-based treatment, and nutritional counselling are all effective options to consider.
Remember, recovery is a journey, and it may take time and patience to achieve lasting results. With the right support and treatment, your friend can learn to overcome their eating disorder and live a happy, healthy life.
If you’re in the UK please see the following charity to help too: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ as we approach Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
This article as written by Anita Ginsburg and contains a non sponsored link.
(image: Matthew Ball, Unsplash)
Road accidents can have devastating consequences, not only physically but also mentally. While physical injuries are often visible and receive immediate attention, the psychological impact of such traumatic events can sometimes be overlooked.
Road accident victims must prioritise their mental health alongside their physical recovery. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of addressing mental health after a road accident and provide practical tips for staying mentally resilient during the recovery process.
The aftermath of a road accident can trigger a range of emotional responses, including shock, fear, anger, sadness, and anxiety.
These feelings are normal reactions to a traumatic event. Still, if left unaddressed, they can develop into more serious mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety disorders.
Victims need to recognise and acknowledge their emotions rather than suppress them, as this can help prevent long-term psychological complications.
In the aftermath of a road accident, prioritising mental well-being is crucial. Here are essential tips for maintaining your mental health.
Dealing with the aftermath of a road accident can be incredibly stressful, but some techniques can help manage stress levels.
Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation are all effective ways to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
It’s also helpful to practice stress management techniques such as time management, setting boundaries, and prioritizing tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Remember to be patient and permit yourself to take breaks when needed.
Navigating the legal aftermath of a road accident can amplify stress during recovery. However, you can alleviate some of that burden with a dependable legal team like Herrman & Herrman providing support.
Entrusting your case to experienced professionals allows you to shift focus towards prioritising your mental health and overall well-being.
Knowing that competent advocates are handling the legal complexities empowers you to engage in self-care practices without the added pressure of legal concerns weighing on your mind.
Seeking support is paramount for road accident victims. Opening up to trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals can offer validation, comfort, and valuable perspective during a challenging time.
Furthermore, consulting a qualified therapist provides a safe space to process trauma. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) are particularly effective in addressing trauma-related symptoms.
By actively seeking support and engaging in therapy, victims can embark on a journey of healing, resilience, and eventual recovery, empowered by the guidance and expertise of those who understand and specialise in mental health care.
Self-care is indispensable for preserving mental well-being throughout the recovery journey. Prioritise ample sleep, a nourishing diet, regular exercise, and indulging in hobbies that foster joy and relaxation.
Steer clear of detrimental coping mechanisms like substance abuse, as they can compound mental health challenges. Tending to your physical health bolsters mental resilience and facilitates recovery.
By nurturing yourself holistically, you cultivate a foundation of strength and vitality, empowering you to navigate the emotional complexities of post-accident recovery with greater resilience and grace.
Remember, self-care isn’t an indulgence; it’s a vital component of healing and self-preservation.
In the aftermath of a road accident, isolation can intensify feelings of loneliness and depression. Therefore, victims need to connect with others actively. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, seeking support from friends, or participating in support groups tailored for individuals with similar traumas, fostering connections is paramount.
Engaging with those who comprehend your experiences can offer validation, empathy, and a profound sense of belonging.
By building a network of understanding and supportive individuals, road accident victims can navigate their emotional journey with resilience, knowing they are not alone in their struggles.
Recovery from a road accident, both physically and mentally, takes time and patience. It’s essential for victims to set realistic expectations for their recovery and to be gentle with themselves along the way.
Healing is sometimes linear, and setbacks or challenges may occur along the road. By accepting this reality and focusing on progress rather than perfection, victims can cultivate resilience and navigate the ups and downs of recovery more effectively.
Road accidents can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health. Still, with the proper support and coping strategies, victims can navigate the recovery process with resilience and strength.
By prioritising their mental health, seeking support, practicing self-care, managing stress, connecting with others, and setting realistic expectations, road accident victims can promote healing and regain a sense of control over their lives.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and to take things one day at a time. Your mental health matters, and you deserve support and compassion as you journey toward recovery.
This article was written by a freelance writer.
Contains sponsored links.
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Are you seeking restful sleep at night? If so, then you are not alone in this; the majority of people face the issue of restlessness at night. In fact, in the United States, about 50 to 70 million people suffer from insomnia, as reported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and SleepHealth.org. Millions more around the world, including in the UK, also struggle with the affects of poor sleep.
When your mind is entangled with the day’s worries, whether it’s work stress, family commitments, or occasional illnesses, achieving a truly restful night’s sleep can feel like a distant dream.
But fear not; this guide is here for you to unlock effective tips for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Hormones play a vital role in regulating sleep; they are natural chemicals in your body. For instance, low testosterone levels can significantly impact sleep quality, especially in men. However, TRT can be a viable option if your t-levels are really low and you want to improve sleep patterns. This helps you to regain lost energy and vitality.
There are different types of TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) options available. It includes injectables, creams, gels, or capsules. The best way to determine which option is right for you is to consult your doctor. They will carefully assess your situation and recommend the most suitable course of action tailored to your needs. This ensures that any treatment you receive is safe and appropriate for your overall well-being.
A relaxing bedtime routine is crucial in signalling your body that it’s time to relax and get ready for a nap. Start by setting a specific time to go to bed and wake up, even on weekends. This regular schedule helps your body get used to a routine. Next, include soothing activities in your routines, like reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.
These activities promote relaxation and give your mind peaceful thoughts, which leads to restful sleep. In fact, in this way, when you wake up the next morning, you will feel refreshed and ready for a new day.
(image`: Rock n Wool: Unsplash)
Your bedroom environment significantly impacts your ability to get rest. Ensure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and cool. A peaceful space helps you avoid disturbances that can wake you up during the night.
Consider using blackout curtains for darkness because it signals to your brain that it’s time to take a rest. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows to support your body adequately. If noise is a problem, use earplugs or a white noise machine to block out disruptive sounds.
Keeping the room cool, usually between 60-67°F (15-19°C), helps your body temperature drop, which is necessary for sleep. When you have the right conditions in your bedroom, you’re more likely to enjoy uninterrupted and high-quality sleep, leaving you energised in the morning.
Stress and anxiety are significant barriers. That’s why it’s recommended to learn stress management techniques that help calm your mind and body. One effective technique is deep breathing exercises. This involves taking slow, deep breaths to relax your nervous system and reduce stress. You can also explore practices like yoga or progressive muscle relaxation, which help alleviate tension and promote relaxation.
Another helpful strategy is journalling. Before bedtime, jot down your worries and thoughts in a journal. This can be a therapeutic way to clear your mind and ease the burden of stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep peacefully.
After all, managing stress is not just about the night; it’s about finding balance throughout your day. In this way, you can create a more harmonious and restful experience for yourself.
What you eat and how you move throughout the day can influence the quality of your sleep. To promote it, taking care of these and being mindful of what you consume is essential. When it comes to eating, avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before going to bed, as they can lead to restlessness and insomnia . Instead, opt for light, sleep-promoting snacks like almonds.
In terms of physical activity, regular exercise is beneficial, especially when done in the morning. However, it’s advisable to steer clear of vigorous exercise too close to bedtime, as it may leave you feeling too energised to take a rest. These lifestyle choices can contribute to a more peaceful and refreshed night.
Final Thoughts
Achieving a restful nap is a journey that requires a holistic approach. By establishing daily habits, you can make the way for a better power nap. Remember, each small step you take can significantly improve your sleep quality and impact your overall health and well-being.
This article was written by a freelance writer.
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