5 WAYS TO FEEL BETTER TODAY

There are no quick fixes when it comes to mental ill health but there are small actions you can take to be kinder to your mind and body, and make life seem richer. Here are five easy ideas…

1 Make yourself a mood-boosting meal

Regular, balanced meals make a big difference to your wellbeing, preventing destabilising blood sugar spikes and sluggish digestion.

Charity Mind recommends making a simple, nutritious ‘Mind Meal’ of wholemeal pasta and pesto with tinned tuna, with a salad of avocado, lettuce and seeds, finished with fresh and dried fruit, nuts and probiotic yoghurt.

2 Take in the morning light

As the shorter days arrive, getting a dose of daylight is crucial for wellbeing.

Morning is the best time – studies have shown people who are exposed early in the day are more alert and also sleep better. Don’t hide your tired eyes behind sunglasses. They need unfiltered sunshine.

3

Expressing ourselves, working with our hands and being in the moment help you relax and clear your mind.

Try drawing, playing an instrument, crafting or cooking – you don’t have to be good at them, just have fun. You may enjoy it so much that you choose to try online lessons or a class in person, giving you a sense of purpose.

Get creative 4 Spend time with nature

This could be a trip to the park to observe the colours of the leaves, a spot of gardening or going stargazing.

You don’t need to leave your house – buy and arrange some flowers or tend to your houseplants. Being with animals is also therapeutic, so walk a dog, feed the ducks and spot birds from your window.

5 Take a deep breath

Turn off the tech, step away from your desk and allow yourself to actually breathe. Concentrating on slow, regular breathing can calm racing thoughts and ease stress, enabling you to regain focus.