When we are feeling down, it is easy to resort to default methods to try to feel better. While reaching for a treat size bag of Maltesers and spending your student loan on clothes might seem like the obvious remedy, it can leave us with an uncomfortably full stomach and an uncomfortably empty wallet. So here are a few things that can help you take care of yourself, and feel good for longer than it takes to eat that bag of Maltesers.
1. Take a walk.
While it’s tempting to snuggle in your pyjamas and watch Netflix, strolling outdoors has been scientifically proven to boost mood levels. Research published in the journal “Ecopsychology” revealed that walks in nature were associated with significantly lower depression and perceived stress, as well as enhanced mental well-being. And Bristol isn’t short of beautiful places to go; try crossing the suspension bridge to Leigh Wood.
(Photo Credit: The National Trust)
2. Meditation or Mindfulness
Regular mindfulness practice, through meditation, is an effective treatment for stress, worry, lack of focus, relationship problems, addictions and more. Don’t assume that meditation is too difficult to attempt if you are feeling stressed. Check out Headspace, meditation made simple. It’s a downloadable free app with meditation sessions of just 10 minutes a day; I did the Take10 challenge, and now have subscribed to the entire Headspace collection.
(Photo Credit: Headspace)
3. Do something creative
Try a new creative skill that will flex imaginative muscles in your mind that might not be used from day to day. It doesn’t matter what you produce, but notice how the process of creating something will improve your mood. I am certainly no Picasso, but taking some time out to paint (anything) can improve how I feel. Try the pottery painting studio Flying Saucers for an afternoon of relaxation round the corner from University.
(Photo Credit: Creative Bristol)
4. Budget for little indulgences
Once you have budgeted for the essentials, like rent, toilet rolls and groceries, there is another “essential” area that you need to budget for. Portion off some money for small treats to yourself- whether that be herbal tea, bubble bath, or candles. Make it a non-negotiable part of your budget as a little reminder that taking care of yourself is a priority.
(Photo Credit: Beauty and Wellness)
5. Yoga
It’s not all about touching your toes. Yoga can be a key activity to help you look after your mental wellbeing. Improved brain function, along with relief from anxiety, depression, stress are just a few of its benefits. No need to join a class (though the Bristol Student’s Union does offer yoga sessions to any enthusiasts). Try out “Yoga with Adrienne” on Youtube, a series of programmes for beginners that you can practice in your living room.
6. Put a memory in a jar each day
Too busy to keep a journal? Try a memory jar instead. You can write down one thing that you are thankful for having happened that day, whether it is meeting a friend for coffee or having an afternoon nap. It is a great gratitude exercise, and you can read back through them if you ever need a little boost. Plus, Vinegar Hill on Queen’s Road sells some really beautiful ones.
(Photo Credit: Tiny Painter)
7. Think about long term goals
Self care involves prioritising yourself for a while, and removing yourself from the everyday which can sometimes feel like a hard trudge. Take some time out to think about your dreams, wishes and fancies which might help you to escape for a little while and allow you to get excited for the future. Buying a Listography is a great way to start!
(Photo Credit: Chronicle Books)
(Photo Credit: FreeBook)
8. Decorate
if you fill your bedroom with positive things, chances are it will have some effect on your mood. I call this self care in advance. It takes the form of candles, fairy lights, photos and quotes. Then, when you are in need of that little bit of encouragement, just look around you to find your personal ready made mood booster.
(Photo Credit: Play Buzz)
9. Buy flowers for no reason
At a certain stage, I realised (to my dismay) that there would not be multiple romantic suitors queuing up outside my door to give me flowers regularly. Tradition makes us think of flowers as a gift to another, whether that be family, friends or a romantic partner. But I have decided to break this trend; buying flowers on a whim has turned into a present I give to myself on occasion. Try it out. Don’t underestimate “flower power” in self-care. Plus, a bunch of daffodils at Sainsbury’s will only set you back £1. Can’t go wrong really.
(Photo Credit: First Come Flowers)
I hope these self care tips will get you through these cold winter months, with the hurricane of work and deadlines encroaching on us. And remember to make time each day that is dedicated to you, whether it is just lighting a candle, doing a quick sun salutation, or scribbling down a thought to put in your memory jar.
(Photo Credit: Tumblr)