Although we may not always be able to change our external circumstances, there are small changes we can make to positively impact our current situation. While we spend more time at home and indoors, here are our top tips that you can add into your daily routine to keep your mind and body in check.
8 Wellbeing Tips
1. Set aside time to read
There’s no better time than now to read that book sitting on your bedside table. There’s a great sense of accomplishment in completing a book that works wonders for your mood. If your children are old enough to read by themselves then you can even dedicate an hour of the day where everyone takes a break from screens and reads together. Stuck for inspiration? Take a look at our recommended reads.
2. Take time out for yoga
If you’re working from home you may find it harder to get your brain kickstarted in the morning but a top tip to get into the working mindset and give you a positive start to the day is practicing yoga. This meditation activity can help you build strength and flexibility but also help relax your mind and body with different breathing exercises and poses. If you’re a beginner in the field, get started with this Definitive Guide to Yoga.
3. Get outdoors if possible
By staying indoors, we sometimes find ourselves with a touch of ‘cabin fever.’ It’s beneficial for your mental wellbeing to get outside and embrace the fresh air which is why taking a short walk can help you feel rejuvenated. However, it is still important to be smart about this, avoid crowded areas and maintain social distancing with other walkers. If walking isn’t a possibility, open windows and doors in your house to bring the outdoors in.
4. Refresh your wardrobe
By clearing out old clothing that you no longer wear or need, you can get a real sense of accomplishment. This not only gives your wardrobe a detox but also your mind as you take control of your belongings and feel more organised. You also might even find that item you thought you had lost!
5. Adapt your sleep routine
Now is a great time to get yourself into a daily sleep routine that works for you. The right amount of sleep varies from person to person however we all should aim for at least 7-9 hours. Getting a good night’s sleep is considered to be just as important as eating healthy and exercising. It can help improve concentration and productivity which is key if you’re working from home.
6. Eat a rainbow of foods
Eating a range of fruit and vegetables not only benefits you physically but can also have a positive impact on your mental health as you will feel full of energy and not deflated from fatty foods. Introduce fresh season produce into your diet such as broccoli and leeks and you might just notice a difference. With that in mind, we have whipped up 7 Spring Recipes that will get you into the swing of things.
7. Update your photo albums
When was the last time you printed your photos? In a digital world, sometimes we can forget the beauty of having printed memories framed around the house. Reminisce on your favourite moments by updating your photo albums or making a new one. Applications such as Free Prints let you develop up to 45 pictures per month and you only have to pay for the delivery. If you’re feeling extra creative, perhaps have a go at making a DIY album.
8. Don’t forget to laugh!
Just because we are spending some time apart from our family and friends doesn’t mean that we can’t laugh! Whatever it is that brings you joy, try to include it in your daily routine if possible. We recommend watching your favourite comedy film, listening to a funny podcast or watching some stand-up performances. Don’t forget, your friends and family are never too far, join in on a group video call with apps such as House Party which lets you all chat and play games like heads up, Trivia or Quick draw, on your devices via video call.
What are you doing to maintain a healthy wellbeing? Share your tips with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages using the hashtag #SmarterLiving.