With the nights drawing in, The Works have teamed up with the mental health charity, Mind, to raise awareness of the mental health benefits of crafting.
The winter can be especially difficult for many, with darker, colder days and prolonged periods of rain affecting energy, mood, anxiety and stress levels. Some people may experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is a type of depression experienced during different seasons or times of year.
Stephen Buckley, Head of Information at Mind said,
“We know that crafting can be a powerful way to support mental health and wellbeing. Creative activities like card-making or knitting require focus, which may help us disconnect from daily pressures and find a welcome distraction. Learning a new skill can also bring a sense of accomplishment, which can be especially rewarding as the nights draw in. The repetitive motions of these crafts can feel meditative and calming, making them a helpful tool for managing stress, depression, and anxiety. Different things will work for different people and the main thing is finding a craft you enjoy and which fits into your life.”
Mind and The Works have produced a blog post with some ideas for easing stress and anxiety, boosting concentration, focus and memory.
Lynne Tooms, Chief Commercial Officer at The Works said, “Channelling your emotions into creativity can have a huge impact on us as adults, with various craft types having a big impact on our mood and sense of achievement, as well as providing us with skills and hobbies that can turn into passions to enjoy all year round.”
When dealing with the challenges of at home hospice care, finding ways to reduce stress can make a significant difference in both the patient’s and the caregiver’s experience.
Mindfulness is one such technique that has gained attention for its ability to help individuals manage stress and maintain a sense of peace during difficult times.
This approach is especially valuable when navigating the emotional complexities that come with end-of-life care.
Understanding the Role of Mindfulness in Hospice Care
Mindfulness is about being present in the moment.
It’s a practice that encourages awareness of thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.
For those in at home hospice care, mindfulness can be a tool to manage the anxiety and fear that often accompany serious illness.
One caregiver I spoke with shared how mindfulness helped her mother, who was receiving hospice care at home.
They would sit together, practicing deep breathing exercises and focusing on the simple act of being together.
This small routine became a comforting ritual that eased her mother’s anxiety and brought them closer.
Techniques to Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated.
In fact, it’s often the simplest techniques that are the most effective.
Here are a few methods that can be incorporated into a daily routine:
1. Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is one of the most straightforward mindfulness practices.
Encourage the patient to take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the rise and fall of their chest.
This can be done while lying in bed or sitting comfortably in a chair.
A friend of mine used this technique with her father during his hospice care.
She found that starting the day with a few minutes of deep breathing helped him remain calm and focused throughout the day.
2. Guided Imagery
Guided imagery involves visualizing peaceful and calming scenes.
It could be a favorite vacation spot, a serene beach, or a quiet forest.
This technique allows the patient to mentally escape from their physical discomfort.
A family I know used guided imagery with their loved one who was receivingat home hospice care. They would describe their favourite memories of trips they had taken together, creating a mental journey that brought comfort and joy.
3. Body Scan Meditation
Body scan meditation is a technique where attention is focused on different parts of the body, from the toes to the head.
This practice can help in releasing tension and promoting relaxation. One of my neighbours found this practice particularly helpful for her husband. He would close his eyes and slowly focus on each part of his body, which helped him manage pain and find a sense of peace.
(image: Unsplash)
Integrating Mindfulness Into Daily Care
Incorporating mindfulness into at home hospice care doesn’t require drastic changes to a routine.
It’s about finding moments in the day where mindfulness can be naturally integrated.
For instance, during meal times, caregivers can encourage mindful eating, where the patient focuses on the flavours and textures of their food.
This not only helps with digestion but also turns a mundane activity into a mindful practice.
Another example is during personal care routines, like bathing or dressing.
Caregivers can encourage patients to focus on the sensations of warm water or the feel of soft fabric against their skin.
These moments, though brief, can provide a sense of normalcy and comfort.
Real-Life Impact of Mindfulness in Hospice Care
The real impact of mindfulness is seen in the quality of life it brings to both patients and caregivers.
A close friend of mine shared a touching story about her aunt who was inathome hospice care. Her aunt had always been a worrier, but mindfulness helped her find peace in her final days.
Through guided meditation and deep breathing, she learned to let go of her fears and focus on the present moment.
This not only eased her anxiety but also brought a sense of calm to her family.
The caregivers also found that these mindfulness practices helped them cope with the emotional toll of caring for a loved one in hospice.
They were able to be more present, less overwhelmed, and more connected to their aunt during this difficult time.
Practical Tips for Caregivers
If you’re a caregiver looking to incorporate mindfulness into at home hospice care, here are a few practical tips:
Start small: Begin with just a few minutes of mindfulness each day.
Be patient: Mindfulness is a practice that takes time to develop.
Create a routine: Incorporate mindfulness into daily activities to make it a natural part of the day.
Focus on the positive: Encourage the patient to focus on what they are grateful for in the present moment.
The Healing Power of Presence
Mindfulness in at home hospice care is not about eliminating pain or discomfort; it’s about finding moments of peace amidst the challenges.
By focusing on the present moment, patients can experience a sense of calm that transcends their physical condition.
For caregivers, mindfulness offers a way to connect more deeply with their loved ones, creating meaningful moments that can be cherished long after they are gone.
One patient I knew, who was in the final stages of hospice care, found immense comfort in the simple act of sitting quietly with her daughter.
They would hold hands, breathe together, and share stories from the past.
These moments became a source of strength for both of them, demonstrating the profound impact of mindfulness on the human experience.
Lastly…
Incorporating mindfulness into at home hospice care can provide both patients and caregivers with tools to manage stress, find peace, and create meaningful connections.Whether it’s through deep breathing, guided imagery, or body scan meditation, these practices offer a way to navigate the emotional complexities of end-of-life care.
For those providing care, mindfulness can be a source of comfort and strength, helping them remain present and connected during this difficult journey.
And for patients, mindfulness can offer a sense of peace, allowing them to focus on the moments that matter most.
This article was written by a freelance writer and contains do follow link.
Creating a peaceful home environment is essential for your mental and emotional well-being. Your home should be your sanctuary, a place where you can relax, unwind, and recharge. If you’re looking to transform your living space into a peaceful oasis, look no further. This blog post will explore five simple yet effective ways to make your home a more tranquil and harmonious place.
Declutter and Organise
One of the first steps in creating a peaceful home environment is decluttering and organising your space. Clutter can lead to feelings of overwhelm and stress, so take the time to go through each room and get rid of any unnecessary items. Invest in storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to keep things organised. By decluttering and organising your space, you’ll create a sense of calm and serenity in your home.
Bring Nature Indoors
Bringing elements of nature into your home can have a calming effect on the mind and body. Consider adding houseplants to your living space, such as peace lilies, snake plants, or succulents. Not only do plants improve air quality, but they also add a touch of greenery that can help reduce stress levels. You can also incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, or bamboo into your decor to create a soothing atmosphere.
Create Cozy Spaces
Another way to make your home a peaceful environment is by creating cozy spaces where you can relax and unwind. Invest in comfortable furniture such as plush sofas or armchairs, soft throw blankets, and fluffy pillows. Create reading nooks or meditation corners where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. By designing cozy spaces in your home, you’ll encourage relaxation and tranquility.
Take Care of Any Necessary Repairs
It’s hard to feel at peace in a home that has broken appliances or leaky faucets. Take care of any necessary repairs around your house to maintain a harmonious environment. Fixing squeaky doors, repairing cracked tiles, drain cleaning, or replacing faulty lighting fixtures can make a big difference in how you feel about your living space. By addressing these issues promptly, you’ll create a sense of order and serenity in your home.
Establish Daily Rituals
Finally, establish daily rituals that promote peace and relaxation in your home. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, practicing yoga before bed, or taking evening walks around the neighborhood with your family, incorporating rituals into your daily routine can help create harmony in your living space. Set aside time each day for self-care activities that nourish the soul and bring joy into your life.
Creating a peaceful home environment is essential for your overall well-being. By decluttering and organising your space, bringing nature indoors, creating cozy spaces for relaxation, taking care of necessary repairs around the house, and establishing daily rituals that promote peace and tranquility—you can transform your living spaces into sanctuaries where you can truly thrive. Remember that small changes can make a big impact when it comes to creating a peaceful atmosphere at home—so start implementing these tips today!
Mental health is finally getting recognition in society. The NHS in the UK has appointed their first medical director for mental health and neurodiversity. Our wellbeing should come first during all stages of life.
Mental Health at Any Age
Poor mental health doesn’t discriminate, and it can affect anyone at any age. It impacts how we cope and how we relate to other people.
The Signs of Mental Health Issues
Note anything that might be a sign of poor mental health.
Carers should also look out for any of these signs early on. The faster these are acted on, the sooner the quality of life can improve.
The Role of Social Connection
As humans, we thrive around others. Our loved ones and our community give us both emotional support and a sense of belonging.
To expand connections, look at joining a club or doing some volunteering. These interactions can ease loneliness, which can be especially common in older adults.
Coping with Life Transitions
As we age, we’ll go through many transitions in life, some positive, and some not. Things like retirement, the loss of a spouse or even moving house can be difficult to navigate. Triggering negative feelings.
Reach out to a trusted friend. But if things start to become unmanageable, seek the help of a professional, like a GP or psychiatrist.
(image: Lesley Juarez, Unsplash)
Trying Mindfulness and Meditation
Lots of people find these practices useful. It helps to connect us to our feelings without judgment. Being aware of our emotions is so important and connecting with our breath.
Start with breathing exercises or guided meditation. To reduce anxiety, mindfulness should be done regularly.
Maintaining Hobbies and Interests
Make time for your hobbies- whether its sport, art, writing, gaming, music or drama. Taking time to do things we enjoy gives a sense of achievement. In some cases, it also connects us with others.
The Role of Technology in Mental Health
Many apps offer mental health support, and some of them are even free. Social media is also a great tool for staying in touch with loved ones.
Older adults might need some support for navigating new technology. Carers or loved ones might need to give them a helping hand.
Nutrition and Mental Health
When we’re not feeling great mentally, it’s easy to fall into bad eating patterns. But we need to make sure we’re getting the vitamins and minerals that keep our brains healthy. Eating well is key at any age to support a healthy mind.
Summary
As we go through life’s journey, we must focus on our mental health at every stage. Learning to test how we’re feeling and navigate changes will keep our brains healthy. If we start to notice a decline, there’s no shame in seeking the help of a professional. It can help us navigate through this tough period.
Stay connected to others and build new connections through mutual interests. For carers there’s plenty of resources online for creating a plan to help your loved one’s mental health.
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.
Embarking on the journey of meditation is akin to entering a profound realm of self-discovery and tranquility. This ancient practice, deeply woven into the fabric of various cultures and spiritual traditions, offers a transformative pathway to inner peace and mindfulness. In this exploration of meditation, you can delve into its fundamental principles and techniques. You may also learn about the many benefits it brings. If you are eager to embark on this contemplative journey, there is much to be gained.
Understanding the Essence of Meditation
Meditation, at its core, is a mental exercise designed to heighten awareness and cultivate a tranquil state of mind. In a world filled with incessant noise and distractions, meditation serves as a sanctuary. This is a space that is meant to silence the ceaseless chatter of the mind. Through various techniques such as focused breathing, guided visualisation, or mindful observation, individuals aim to create a profound sense of calm and presence in the current moment. There’s a reason why meditation has been a part of the human experience since as far back as 5000 BCE.
Getting Started on Your Meditation Journey
Begin by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can sit or lie down without distractions. Creating an environment that allows you to immerse yourself in the practice is foundational. Once settled, turn your attention inward, focusing on your breath—an elemental meditation technique. Inhale deeply, feeling the air fill your lungs, and then exhale slowly, consciously releasing tension. Alternatively, engage in mindful observation by letting thoughts come and go without attachment, cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. Don’t be surprised if a surge of energy during meditation happens — and don’t judge it if it does.
Various Types of Meditation
Meditation is a diverse tapestry, offering various techniques catering to different preferences and goals. Mindfulness meditation encourages being fully present, urging individuals to observe thoughts and sensations without attachment. Transcendental meditation involves repeating a mantra silently, guiding practitioners toward a state of relaxed awareness. Loving-kindness meditation centers around cultivating feelings of love and compassion, often achieved through the repetition of positive phrases. Body scan meditation encourages a mental exploration of the body, identifying and releasing tension to promote both physical and mental relaxation.
Benefits of Meditation
The benefits of meditation are extensive and well-documented, making it a compelling practice for those seeking holistic well-being. Stress reduction stands as one of its primary advantages, with regular practice promoting relaxation and heightened mindfulness. Improved concentration becomes a natural outcome, as meditation serves as a training ground for the mind, enhancing cognitive function and focus. Emotional well-being experiences a positive shift, marked by reduced anxiety, a more optimistic outlook, and increased emotional resilience. The calming effect of meditation often extends to sleep, contributing to improved sleep quality and overall restorative rest.
Challenges on the Meditation Path
While the benefits of meditation are profound, the journey is not without its challenges. Patience becomes a valuable companion, recognizing that meditation is a skill that matures over time. Developing a consistent practice is equally crucial; establishing a routine, even if just for a few minutes each day, allows individuals to experience benefits. Encouraging experimentation with different techniques acknowledges the uniqueness of each individual, encouraging them to discover approaches that resonate with their personal preferences. Incorporating meditation into daily life is a transformative process, one that extends beyond formal sessions. Integrating mindfulness into routine activities, such as mindful eating or walking, becomes a practical and enriching way to extend the benefits beyond the confines of just one daily meditation session.
Final Thoughts on a Transformational Process
Practicing meditation will unlock a special door to the realm of self-discovery and serenity. As one navigates the principles, techniques, and benefits, it becomes evident that the true beauty of meditation lies not solely in reaching a destination but in embracing the ongoing journey toward self-awareness and inner peace. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned practitioner, the path of meditation invites you to explore the depths of your own consciousness and find solace in the stillness of the present moment.
This article was written by writer Miranda Spears.
Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be challenging in everyday situations. From difficulties staying focused and organised to managing emotions, those living with ADHD face unique struggles that can make life more difficult. However, there are effective strategies for coping with these challenges and leading a successful life despite them.
In this article, we will discuss six tips for managing the everyday effects of ADHD. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can learn how to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
1. Establish a Routine
For those of you who are Living With ADHD, you probably already know the importance of establishing routines. Having a regular schedule and structure can help to keep your day running smoothly, allowing you to stay on task and be productive.
Start small by developing simple routines that are easy to remember and stick to, such as setting a specific time for meals or getting dressed in the morning. You may also want to create an evening routine so that you can relax and prepare for bed in the smoothest way possible. Whatever you need to do for that day, having a routine to follow can help you to get it done.
2. Break Tasks into Manageable Pieces
As you navigate life, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges that come your way. Some may be big, and some may be small, but to cope with these tasks, it is important to break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. This way, you can feel less disheartened and instead focus on achieving each small goal as opposed to focusing on one huge end goal.
They can also make it easier to stay on track. For example, if you’re trying to complete a project that is due in two weeks, break down the task into achievable steps for each day. This way, you can stay motivated and make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Utilize Technology
Technology is constantly evolving, and if you know how to take advantage, it can help make living with ADHD a little easier. For instance, there are plenty of helpful tracking apps out there that can be used to remind yourself of tasks that need to be done or alert you when something needs attention.
Additionally, using an alarm clock app can help keep your schedule on track. There are also applications that can help you manage your focus better, as well as those that provide helpful tips for how to cope with life’s challenges. Taking advantage of technology can be a great way to stay organised, on-task and motivated.
4. Use Visual Aids
While you may think that you are too old to use visual aids, they can be a huge help when it comes to dealing with everyday challenges. Visual reminders, such as Post-it notes on the refrigerator or calendar events written in bright colors, can help you remember important tasks and deadlines, reducing your anxiety levels.
Not only that, but they can also provide you with the opportunity to reward yourself for completing tasks, as you can check off items or post pictures that are reminders of what you’ve accomplished.
5. Get Regular Exercise
Regardless of whether you have ADHD or not, regular exercise is important for mental and physical health. This is because it can help people to focus better, gain more energy, reduce stress levels, and improve overall well-being.
Finding the right type of exercise can help you manage your symptoms. Try activities such as running, swimming, walking, or even yoga to keep your body and mind active. Exercise can also help to boost dopamine, which is a chemical that regulates attention and concentration.
Finally, remember to set manageable goals for yourself when starting an exercise routine. This will help you stay motivated and on track with achieving your fitness goals!
6. Practice Mindfulness
You may be surprised at just how many people living with ADHD use mindfulness to cope with their daily challenges. Mindfulness helps you focus on the present moment, without worrying about what happened in the past or imagining a future outcome.
This can give you more control over your thoughts and actions, which can be particularly beneficial when it comes to controlling impulsive behavior. To practice mindfulness, take a few minutes every day to sit in a quiet place, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. You can also practice mindful eating or walking.
By becoming more aware of the present moment and taking control over how you react to situations, it can help you manage symptoms of ADHD and lead to increased self-esteem, improved concentration, better relationships with friends and family, as well as reduced stress and anxiety.
Final Thoughts
Living with ADHD can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. By taking the time to understand your own unique needs and creating strategies that work for you, you can manage everyday tasks and build self-confidence in yourself. It is important to remember that living with ADHD does not define you as an individual; instead, use it as an opportunity to discover new ways of doing things or approaching challenges in life.
With patience and practice, anything is possible! So don’t give up – take small steps each day towards conquering whatever comes your way.
Mental health is something that we all need to think about when we go through life, as it is a major part of being well and healthy in general. If you are aware that you might need to improve your mental health considerably, one of the main things to be aware of is that it will change over your lifetime. In this post, we are going to discuss how you can look after your mental health at every stage of life, so that you can much more effectively hope to keep your mind strong and intact.
Being Aware Of Your Cycles
You probably have times in your life when your physical health is better than at other times. Well, the same is likely true for your mental health too, and it’s therefore important that you are as aware of these cycles as possible, because just being more aware of them is going to help you to take better care of your mind on the whole. Once you know and understand your own cycles a little better, you’ll find that it can really help a great deal, so that’s something that you should think about as early on as possible. You will also need to look at things that can support you such as medication, therapy and the basics of eating and sleeping well too.
Consider Your Stage In Life
However, mental health does also have different needs at different stages of your life, and it’s great to be in a place where you can appreciate this, and where you know that you can effectively help to keep your mental health as strong as possible. Depending on your age, you might need various different kinds of help, from retirement villages in your older years to private healthcare when you are younger. It’s all about making sure that you are considering your stage in life as well as you can.
Remember The Basics
All that being said, there are a number of basic approaches that you can and should always take if you are keen to make sure that your mental health is being looked after, and these are the kinds of things that will be relevant no matter what stage of life you might be in. For instance, it is always going to be a good idea to keep your physical health in place, and you will find that keeping active and having social connections helps a great deal too. All in all, it’s going to make a huge difference to your mental health at any time, so remember that as well as you can.
Practice Mindfulness
It’s also really wise to make sure that you are doing all you can to be as mindful as possible, because that is going to be important at any time. The more mindful you can be, the more effectively you are going to be able to take care of your mind, simply because you’ll have a better understanding of what’s actually going on in your mind at any time. So this is something that you should definitely make sure you are aware of as well. Your mental health is vital.
These days of the coronavirus pandemic are filled with anxiety and fear unlike anything else we and the world has experienced since World War II. It’s important to stay in tune with yourself and remember it is okay to not feel totally well and to be feeling more anxious.
Here are some ideas to help your mental health during the pandemic:
Get moving
You’d be surprised what physical activity does for you, both in terms of physical health and mental health! In terms of mental health in particular, it can help decrease anxiety and improve moods. While gyms and studio classes are closed and it is easier than ever to get an effective exercise in with guided tech at home, now is a great time to become familiar with fitness apps. There are many different ones to choose from: you could try the 30 day fitness challenge app for example to get into a new routine and find the perfect guided workouts work for you! Whether its workouts, barre, or even taking the stairs more, try to move as much as you can.
Try meditating, mindfulness or prayer
Finding stress management techniques that resonate with you is crucial as stress is an inevitable part of life. The ideal time to start up a mindfulness practice is when times are good so that you have established a practice in times of stress, but it can still be incredibly powerful if you are starting out now!
Just remember to be patient with yourself. There are a lot of practices out there, such as meditation, mindfulness, and prayer, so you have options. If you are unsure of where to start, start with daily deep breathing exercises.
Avoid alcohol
Avoid or at least monitor alcohol intake in times of high stress in order to protect your mental health. Alcohol is often used to ‘self-medicate’, but while it can release endorphins in your body, it is classified as a depressant. It significantly impacts your central nervous system, and in times of stress you want to be in tune with your body and paying extra care to your nervous system rather than confusing it.
Seek a therapist and do appointments via Skype or Zoom
Seeking help is a sign of strength! If you need help or need professional support as you work through stress and/or anxiety, seek a therapist. Many therapists do appointments via Skype or Zoom and if you find one in your area, you can transition to in-person appointments when possible.
Practise self care
Self care looks different for everyone, and finding what makes you feel good and content is so important. Try cooking, at-home facials, taking extra time on your skincare and giving yourself a face massage, baths with Epsom salts, and quality sleep.
All of these things can contribute to healthy living and can help us get through the pandemic. They are also great habits to incorporate into your lifestyle to continue caring for your body and mind.
This guest blog was written by freelance writer, Mary Davis.
If you’re stuck at home during the Coronavirus outbreak and need some tips to help with your mental health, you have come to the right place.
Being on lockdown can make us all feel depressed and more anxious. Self care for ourselves and our families are more important than ever.
Here are some suggestions of things to do to help your mental health and self care at the moment:
– Follow an exercise video- Listen to guided relaxation (I recommend channels ‘Relax for a while’ and ‘Michael Sealey’ on Youtube).
– Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal- this helps to clear your mind.
– Nourish your body with healthy food and stay hydrated, so important to get help with groceries if possible and drink lots of water.
– Have a bath to help relax you and keep you feeling good.
– Watch stand up comedy on Netflix, Amazon Prime or on TV.
– Do a puzzle, if you enjoy them.
– Play a board or card game.
– Limit your exposure to the news to once a day if you are able to stop anxious thoughts.
– Bake/ cook – good for being mindful and creating something delicious, with a sense of achievement.
– Read a book and let your mind imagine.
– Go for a walk in nature (responsibly and if your country’s guidelines allow you to!).
– When you get up- make your bed and don’t stay in pyjamas all day, to get you into a good routine and positive mindset.
– Have a phone or zoom chat with positive influences in your life.
– Tidy your home as best you can.
– Play upbeat music (and dance or sing).
– A few drops of pure lavender oil in your bath or a lavender pillow spray to help you fall off to sleep and help reduce anxiety.
– Learn a new skill- many online courses are being offered.
– Break down the tasks that are overwhelming you in to small achievable chunks.
If you are having persistent overwhelming negative thoughts or feelings please tell someone- speak to a trusted friend or family member, your GP, the Samaritans on 116 123 (UK- you can also email them if you prefer), a counsellor.
Things can and will get better.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, look after it.
Chantal Shaw is a guest writer from the UK and the sister of our founder Eleanor.
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