Feeling flat, down, or stressed? Or, just recognised you need to take more time to care for yourself and boost your overall mood? These practical and easy steps can help! Lift your mental wellbeing today and make life that bit lighter…
1) Connect with others
As a social species, humans thrive on connection, and evidence shows social interaction is one of our fundamental needs. Engaging with others is a great way to feel better in ourselves, so why not…
- Sit down with a loved one with a cup of tea and a biscuit. Take the time to properly chat without all the distractions of day-to-day life.
- If you live alone, reach out to a friend or family member by texting or calling them to catch up. Or, pop to the local shop and have a chat with the cashier.
- Join a local club to meet new people
- Ask someone how their week is going and really listen- they’ll appreciate it, and you’ll be lifted in feeling valued by them.
2) Get outside
Getting out in the fresh air is an amazing way to lift your mood. As little as 5 minutes outdoors can improve your mood, and there are many ways to do this…
- Sit in your garden or on a park bench and take in your surroundings- whether that’s peace and quiet or hustle and bustle!
- Go for a walk in nature or, if it’s easier, around the local streets, and enjoy moving your body.
- If it’s a nice day, make up a picnic and sit out at a local park or nature spot.
- If it’s not, why not head to a local coffee shop- a change of scene can be just as refreshing as time spent outside.
3) Listen to music
Listening to music is shown to reduce stress and create feelings of happiness, and there are lots of ways you can do this…
- Make a playlist of your favourite songs- having them to hand is great for when you need a quick mood booster!
- Buy a new CD or make a playlist to listen to whilst your travelling- to work, the shops, to see friends…
- If you’re feeling lonely, tuning in to the radio can be helpful. The friendly chat from the presenter heard in real time can help you feel less alone, and it creates an uplifting atmosphere for working, pottering, or just relaxing.
4) Do a chore in the house
It doesn’t matter how big or small, doing a job around the house is another easy way to boost your wellbeing. Getting something done makes you feel accomplished and productive- emotions that really benefit your overall mood. You could…
- Clear out or organise a cupboard.
- Put on a wash load.
- Dust or clean something that isn’t often cleaned.
- Set yourself one room to tidy
5) Unwind in a way you enjoy
Being kind to yourself and enjoying your downtime is key to a positive mental state. Unwinding in an enjoyable way can mean different things to different people, but here are some strategies…
- Snuggling under a blanket to watch your favourite TV show or film.
- Cooking a meal or baking something you love.
- Reading a book in bed or on the sofa, and lighting some candles.
- Having a bath and going to bed early.
Whether your overall wellbeing has been low, or you just want to be your most positive self, following just some of these five steps can really make a difference! The best thing is they’re all simple, practical ideas that you can easily fit into day-to-day life- no matter how busy you may be.