Nurturing your well-being
As I reflect on the various methods that I have adopted over the years to nurture my well-being, I am struck by the realisation that well-being isn't a destination but rather a journey—a continual process of exploration and refinement.
There are a vast number of methods you can use to promote your overall well-being, but the first most beneficial method I believe, is the everyday to do list. Writing a check list every morning of all of your tasks and goals for the day ahead.
In order to make this manageable, I also like to include a time line. So that I know what is and is not possible to achieve that day. By completing all of your tasks whether you want to do them or not, will give you a great sense of achievement at the end of your day, as well as bringing you closer towards your goals in life. This is a great method and one you can start today! Whether it’s a list for your day, the week, this month. Write it down and commit to getting it done.
Here are some other methods that have proven invaluable to me:
Journaling: Journaling does not have to be long. It does not have to be elegant or refined it is simply an outpour of your thoughts and feelings. Some of my best ideas and healing moments have come whilst journaling. Best of all, you can do this at any time, day or night, when you have a quiet few minutes to yourself.
Physical Exercise: Whether it's a walk in nature, yoga, or a high-intensity workout, doing Reformer Pilates or at the gym, engaging in regular physical activity will not only keep you healthy but it will also clear your mind and boost endorphins. My mood is instantly uplifted once I’ve immersed myself in nature. Make it achievable, even a short walk or stretch at home is better than doing nothing.
Drink more water! If you struggle to drink enough water day to day, buy a 2L Motivational Water Bottle. Not only your skin but your organs will thank you for it.
Mindfulness Meditation: Beginning each day or before you go to bed with a few moments of meditation is a wonderful way to centre yourself. Not sure how to mediate? Focus on your breath and observe yours thoughts (without judgment). This will set a positive tone for the start of your day or for calming anxiety before bed.
Healthy Eating Habits: Set yourself realistic targets, perhaps as small as cutting out processed meat or limiting your alcohol intake. Fuelling your body with nutritious foods has a profound impact on your overall well-being. If you’re looking to lose weight, think about starting a high protein diet. My Fitness Pal is a wonderful tool that you can use to track your calorie intake and through this app you will learn what foods are in your interest to eat and which foods to avoid.
Connection with Others: I recently lost a dear friend of mine, and it was a stark wake up call to nurture and cherish my relationships with my friends and family. Life is short, give energy to the people that you care about. Have a close look at who is in your inner circle. Cultivating meaningful connections will foster a sense of belonging, support and overall happiness.
Self-Compassion: Practicing self-compassion involves treating yourself with kindness and understanding, especially during times of difficulty or self-doubt. Learn to be gentle with yourself. Put yourself first. This has been transformative in nurturing my mental and emotional well-being.
Setting Boundaries: Combined with self-compassion, establishing healthy boundaries in my personal and professional life has been essential for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. Saying no when necessary and prioritising your own needs will allow you to preserve your energy and focus on what truly matters.
Gratitude: Starting or ending each day by reflecting on the things that you’re grateful for will help shift your perspective from what's lacking to what's abundant in your life. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude fosters contentment and a sense of perspective.
Continuous Learning: Engaging in lifelong learning—whether through reading, taking courses, or exploring new hobbies— will keep your mind sharp and curious. Embracing new challenges and expanding your knowledge will enrich your life in countless ways.
Go to bed early and rise early. Start the day how you mean to go on - Strong! When we put out positive vibrations the universe smiles upon us and positives things start to happen in our lives. I fiercely believe this and have seen it for myself.
Believe in yourself and be the most positive person in the room. Spread love and receive it back in abundance.
Incorporating these methods into my daily life has been instrumental in nurturing my overall well-being and in helping me navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and grace. While each day presents its own set of challenges, I find solace in knowing that I have a toolkit of strategies at my disposal to support my journey toward greater health and happiness.
From my heart to yours,
Namaste x