In the busy world we live in, it’s so important to take time for yourself to keep both your mental and physical health in check. At times, we can lose sight of what's important, or get caught up in everyday tasks that distract us from putting ourselves first.
If you feel you’re at the point where you’d like to change a few things to improve your overall wellbeing, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we embrace the philosophy of quick hacks and fast fixes - looking at what small changes you can make to improve your wellbeing.
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR WELLBEING
While it may be easier said than done, many of us can make small changes in our daily routines to incorporate some aspects of wellness that make us feel happier and healthier (and even more focused). Here are our some small things you can start doing today:
STAY HYDRATED
Perhaps one of the most important things you need to do for your health is to drink enough water to keep your body hydrated throughout the day. Given that our bodies are around 60% water on average, it’s a key component of a healthy body and brain. Not only will you feel more focused and alert, but it will also keep you regular, help you lose weight and much more. It’s practically a wonder drink!
Consider having a glass water when you first get out of bed in the morning - to hydrate your body and help wake up. You can also grab a refillable bottle and challenge yourself to drink 2 to 3 litres a day, and see how different you feel after a week or so.
CUT DOWN ON CIGARETTES AND ALCOHOL
You’ve probably heard this before but if you really do want to start feeling better about yourself, the first port of call is to cut down on any toxins you’re consuming; like smoking and alcohol. Many redemption stories you find come about when the character (real life or not) discuss limiting their drinking or smoking habits.
If you find yourself drinking more in the week than you feel you should, cutting down by even a few drinks each week will do wonders for your health. You could keep a log of how often you actually do drink, and the amount, with apps such as MyFitnessPal - remain conscious, accountable and in control is the big difference. You could also consider alcohol-free beer and wine!
Putting anything into your body that shouldn’t be there is a big no-no, and with the amount of nasties you find in cigarettes, it’s a no brainer. If you cut down on smoking, not only will you decrease your risk of getting diseases like cancer and heart disease, but you’ll see increased fitness levels, lower anxiety and stress levels, better overall hygiene, and more money in your bank account. Ultimately, smoking can be a negative crutch and a distraction - try your best to eliminate it.
HOW TO STOP SMOKING
However, we know that it’s hard to go cold turkey, which is why switching to vaping could be one positive change you make this week. The NHS actually recommends vaping as a good (and affordable) way to cut down on smoking. Once you’ve figured out the nicotine strength of e-liquid you need, you can move down in strengths until you’re on 0%/nicotine-free e-liquid, helping you to kick the habit once and for all.
If you want to get started, why not take a look at our starter kit?:
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VSAVI E-Liquid Vape Kit |
SWITCH A COFFEE FOR TEA
Drinking lots of coffee might feel like a great way to get you to the end of the working day, but in actual fact, there are healthier ways to get your energy fix. By drinking coffee, you’re at risk of overdosing on caffeine, having disturbed sleep, increased cholesterol and having stained teeth - not nice.
Changing a coffee a day for tea (or even green tea - something we highly recommend) means you still get a caffeine hit, but at a lower level. You aren’t at risk of overdosing on caffeine and there are lots of flavours and varieties to choose from, so if you don’t like normal tea, we’re sure you’ll find something to suit your taste buds.
Address how coffee makes you feel - because we all love a warm cup in the morning. Maybe set yourself a limit: 3 cups a day, or no more coffee after midday. Knowing you've set boundaries and staying disciplined again removed the reliance of certain 'treats' that become more than just pleasures. So when you're out having a nice dinner with friends, you can cap off the evening with a decaf coffee, and truly enjoy it.
INTRODUCE PLANTS INTO YOUR HOME/WORKSPACE
Plants are a brilliant way to reduce stress, purify the air around you and boost positive feelings. When we interact with nature, we feel less stressed, so bringing a little nature indoors is only good news. This is especially ideal on those days where you can't get out for a walk or the weather is bad. In the office, they’re known to reduce illness in the workplace; and at home, they give you a sense of responsibility, as well as improving your overall wellbeing.
DO A DIGITAL DETOX
We’re well-versed in the effects of blue light these days, with many health professionals advocating for less screen time. It isn’t just an old wives’ tale, though. Blue light from our phone screens can damage our eyes and negatively affect our sleeping patterns. If you do struggle to sleep, it’s worth dedicating the final hour before you go to bed to get your body ready for sleep. Ditch your screen for a relaxing bath, a yoga session, journal your day or read your latest book. No screens, no distractions, just you and your thoughts. The end goal: set up an evening routine. You’ll find yourself more able to get a good night’s sleep, helping you to feel well-rested and ready for the day.
FIND SMALL DIET AND LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Quick hacks. We all love them. We all Google them.
When you change how you treat your body, you’re likely to see positive outcomes. Just like a garden, you can’t expect flowers to grow from no sunshine and very little water, can you? Our bodies need a combination of things to thrive, including a varied diet (with lots of green vegetables), plenty of water and exercise. If your diet is looking a bit beige, challenge yourself to add in more vegetables this week. Just change one food item per meal.
Park a little further away from your office to get in some extra steps, plan to stretch once a week, or join a new class to get the blood pumping. Soon, you’ll experience an increase in happy hormones and the changes in your fitness levels and health mean you’ll reap all the benefits of your new lifestyle.
If you’re lacking in certain things like energy or need a helping hand to feel relaxed, you could look to supplements to aid you along your way. Investing in multivitamins or a supplement like CBD oil can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE
The most important change you can make today is on the inside. It sounds cheesy, but changing your outlook can have an amazing effect on the way you see the world. Emotions are wonderful - but they shouldn't rule and guide us. Looking at the traits of Stoicism could provide not only some helpful phrases, but new mantras to keep close.
Consider what influences you? Are you following feeds on social media that don't make you feel happy? Is a friend posting too much negativity? You are not a bad person for muting them. Curate your timeline.
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Did you know what you listen to can drastically alter your mood and outlook too? Thankfully, we've got that one covered. We're created a Spotify playlist filled with relaxing songs, down-tempo tunes and lo-fi beats. So whether you are entertaining guests at a dinner party, need to unwind after a long day, or simply want some background noise, we hope this selection of tracks inspire and cater to your needs. Click here to listen. |
CONTINUE READING
Adopting a positive mental attitude, making a note of what you’re grateful for each day and planning out your days and weeks will help you to feel more in control, see the brighter side and feel happier. We truly hope you've found help with our guide, and don't hesitate to reach out if you would like someone to talk to.