10 Ways To Feel Better in Yourself

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week this week and as two thirds of people experience some sort of mental health issue in their lifetime I thought I’d do a little post about 10 ways to feel better in yourself.

I myself have experienced anxiety and depression, I’ve also done a little bit of training in counselling and I like to think I’m in a good place mentally now so these are tips that I use personally if I’m having an off day. Just remember- it’s ok not to be ok.

Here’s my top 10 ways to feel better in yourself.

1. Get Enough Sleep

Everyone says it but getting 7-8 hours a night is actually really important for your body to revive itself. Sleep deprivation has been used as a torture method so that says it all really. It’s hard for some people to get enough (parents, I totally feel you!) but going to bed that little earlier could make a huge difference and you will awake more refreshed and ready to go!

2. Find A Skincare Routine

I know it sounds a bit mad but taking 5-10 minutes morning and night to look after your skin will make you feel better, inside and out. It’s such a brief amount of time but it’s time for you, have a wash, apply some cream and give your face a little massage. Also, looking after your skin can do wonders for your appearance which in turn makes you feel better too!

3. Eat Well

It may sound a little obvious but your diet really can have a huge effect on your mental well being. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying you should never eat takeaways or high fat foods but eating healthy food gives you more energy, makes you less bloated and then you’ll enjoy the takeaways you do have a lot more!

4. Exercise

Again, it probably seems pretty obvious but exercise is great for mental health as well as physical. Exercising releases endorphins into the body that make us feel happier. You don’t have to go running or hit the gym, you could try yoga (my personal preference), it’s great for relaxation and it tones your muscles at the same time.

5. Drink Enough Water

You should drink around 2 litres of water a day but this also includes tea and coffee. Drinking obviously helps replace fluids that we naturally lose throughout the day but if we don’t get it enough then our body can become fatigued and our muscles suffer. It also helps clear your skin so again can help your appearance.

6. Be a Little Selfish

We spend our lives running around and making sure everyone around us are ok. It’s not a bad thing to take an hour or 2 off to do something you want to do. Go take a relaxing bath, go for a walk or just sit and do nothing for half an hour while the toddler naps (my current situation). Just make time for yourself.

7. Find a Hobby

Many people spend their evenings sat in front of the TV while scrolling through social media on their phones, I know this because I also do it! Doing the same thing every night doesn’t help our mental well being though. I’m lucky in that I’ve turned my social media addiction into a hobby by starting this blog but I also craft which I can find quite relaxing at times and I don’t miss out on my favourite TV shows!

8. Sing/Listen To Music

I don’t know about you but I love driving with my music turned up, singing along as loud as I can. Music has great effects on people and different genres can change moods. There is nearly always music on in my house and you can pretty much tell what mood I’m in by what’s playing. Music can also bring back memories so it’s nice to listen to things that remind you of good times.

9. Get Dressed Up

Put on your favourite outfit, one that makes you feel good, do your hair and makeup then crack on with your day feeling fierce! It doesn’t matter what you’re doing that day, even going to Tesco will be better when you look and feel great!

10. Smile

It doesn’t just make you look happier, it makes you feel it. Think of something or someone that made you smile or laugh at any point and smile to yourself about it. It only has to be for a few seconds but that one small thought can change your mood completely.

So they’re my 10 ways to feel better in yourself and also more positive. I know they won’t work miracles or might not even help some people at all but I hope you can find your own way and if you feel you need to talk to someone then here’s some useful information:

Visit: www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Call: Samaritans on 116 123 from any phone.

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Thanks for reading.