We all have mental health, looking after our mental health is just as important as looking after our physical health.
There are many small lifestyle changes we can make that boost our wellbeing.
Tips for improving wellbeing
Connect with others.
Being at work allows us to see others (at a distance of course!) but, also keep in touch with friends and family that you may not have seen for a while. Remember you are still able to meet one other person outside at a social distance.
Be physically active.
Being active improves your physical and mental health. If you’re beginning your fitness journey, try couch to 5K. There are also hundreds of free workouts on YouTube. Check out this article for the best free online workouts to try.
Start a small project.
It may be a small DIY project or maybe you want to make some home renovations. Getting stuck into a project can keep your mind busy and also gives you a sense of achievement once completed.
Eat a balanced diet.
Eating well can improve energy levels and your mood. Sugary comfort foods make us feel better for a short time, but that short term feel good feeling doesn’t last. It is still important to enjoy the occasional treat, just in moderation.
Think about your drinks.
Occasionally we need a boost from an energy drink, tea or coffee. However, after getting a short burst of energy you will crash. Caffeine can also leave us feeling jittery and on edge. Try to cut down your caffeine intake.
Manage Stress
Stress can have the biggest impact on our wellbeing. Now we may be more stressed than usual. Click here to read the NHS stress busters.
Focus on the now.
Paying more attention to the present can improve your mental wellbeing. It’s easy to get caught worrying about the future or thinking about the past. Focusing on the present moment, how you feel and the world around you. Apps like headspace can help you focus on the present.
Better sleep
Sleep plays one of the biggest roles in our wellbeing. Since the first lockdown, research has shown that more people are struggling with their sleep. You should aim for 8 or 9 hours of sleep each night.
Here are our tips for getting a good night’s sleep:
Avoid looking at screens before you go to sleep. The blue light from your screens can give you a poorer quality of sleep.
Have a routine you do every night before bed. Make sure you wind down before going to bed.
Try using a sleep app. Such as Loona, Calm, Pzizz or sleepstation.
Avoid alcohol. Whilst alcohol may make you feel more tired, it actually leads to a bad night sleep.
Create a calm sleeping environment. Using thinks like room darkening shades or a fan may help you sleep better.
Take a note of your worries. Before you go to bed write down how you feel or write your plans for the next day. Writing out how you feel can help get your worries off your mind.
Your Mind Plan
The NHS every mind matters provides you with a quiz, with those results you will receive a personalised plan with things you can do to boost your wellbeing.
To find the quiz, click here.
