We live in a modern world where it’s increasingly difficult to step away. We’re permanently connected and constantly frazzled. From work commitments to pressure from family and friends, we live in a society where it seems harder and harder to say no. But by always saying yes, in fear of judgement and uncertainty of someone’s response, we seem to be damaging our own wellbeing.
With ‘self-care’ having over 23.4 million hashtags on Instagram alone, and more and more of us trying to live a more ‘balanced’ lifestyle, we’ve come up with five ways for a happier and healthier 2020.
Get outside daily
A daily dose of vitamin D is essential for our health. Even if it’s a gloomy grey day, getting outside in the fresh air works wonders for the mind, body and soul. Taking deep breathes and filling your lungs full of fresh air is great for your respiratory system by getting the oxygen flowing.
In turn, a study has suggested that spending just 20 minutes outside gives you that much needed energy boost. Exercising outside is said to enhance your self-esteem, and of course it will save on gym memberships too. But even if you can’t face a run or circuits, just sitting in a green space helps you to reconnect and reduce stress. So, next time you’re struggling to concentrate at work or at home, give yourself 15 minutes breathing space before tackling the task in hand.
CBD oil
With many of us now admitting to suffering from anxiety – people are turning to natural supplements to help. CBD has seen a surge in popularity over the past 12 months and with a wealth of health benefits such as relieving anxiety, depression, pain and inflammation, improving sleep and restoring balance, it’s no wonder people swear by this product. CBD oil sold by Penguin is made with sustainably grown hemp from Oregon. This all-natural supplement helps rejuvenate your body and mind. Simply drop half a pipette of the oil onto your tongue before swallowing 60-90 seconds later.
Schedule self-care
Looking after your own mental health is quite rightly becoming an increasingly popular topic. It’s true that sometimes the most beneficial thing that you can do is just relax. Sleep is of course a key factor and ensuring you’re getting enough of it is undeniably important for your physical and mental health. However, if you’re a busy parent, getting up 30 minutes before the rest of the household wakes can give you that extra ‘head space’ you crave. Having a shower or a morning coffee before the rest of the house demands your attention enables you to have that much needed ‘calm’.
Of course, it goes without saying that we need to get off of our mobile phones and do something more productive, from meditating, reading a book to catching up with friends, or treating ourselves; it’s important to take time out for yourself and this can give you a much needed boost. We all need that time to rejuvenate and do the things we love.
Practice yoga
Yoga dates back more than 5,000 years in Northern India but arrived in Britain in the early 20th Century and has rapidly grown in popularity over the last decade. With self-proclaimed ‘Yogis’ and ‘International Yoga Day’ marked in the calendar; this powerful physical, mental and spiritual practice unites the mind, body and soul and in doing so brings you into the present. As well as building your strength, flexibility and keeping your joints healthy, the practice has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety. With so many different styles of yoga to choose from there really is something for everyone.
Diet
Rethinking our food habits can give your body and mind the fuel it really needs. Many of us are making big changes currently, from paleo, vegetarian and vegan, all of which promise massive health benefits.
Whilst having a plant-based diet has been shown to be better for animals, the environment and your body, it’s also suggested it makes you happier too. Medicine now acknowledges that the mind and body are connected and obviously eating more whole and unprocessed foods helps to avoid certain illnesses like obesity and diabetes. But there’s something to be said for knowing the positive impact you’re having on the planet we live on. So why not start making the changes now, we’re sure you’ll be glad that you did.
