The Importance of Self-Care

Research shows that people who take the time to recharge and restore are more creative, happier, and more successful. Take your time to focus on each of the points below and aim to make healthy changes in each area.

Routine

Start your day by acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small they might seem. If you already practice gratitude, it’s not that far away.

Instead of reminding yourself of the good things in your life, you are reminding yourself of the good things in you. Treat yourself with the same warmth you'd offer a loved one. Practice self-care as an act of kindness to your body and mind – eat nourishing foods, get enough rest, and engage in activities that bring you joy. When you look after yourself, it flows into everything else you do.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness brings you into the present moment, allowing you to make conscious choices about your health rather than dwell on what should or could have been, which inevitably ends with self-recriminations.

Practice mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing, or simply being fully engaged in your daily activities. It will enhance your decision-making related to your well-being.

If you’re new to mindfulness, it can be helpful to start with some guided meditation using smartphone apps like Calm or Headspace. The point of these guided meditations is not to get good at doing it but to make the time to do it daily. It's a ten-minute oasis of calm, and it works best to find a point in your day that you can regularly commit to (even before bed) when you won’t be disturbed. Your mind is bound to wander off partway through. This is normal so don’t throw in the towel if this happens!

Supplements to help:

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega-3 1280mg Softgels

DHA, a type of omega-3, is a major structural component of the brain. Supplementing with DHA can improve cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.

Swanson Full Spectrum Lion's Mane Mushroom 500 mg 60 Capsules

Promotes focus and mental clarity. Full Spectrum formula features plant-based ingredients without unnecessary processing.

Exercise

For people who work in busy office environments, incorporating mindful movement into everyday routines can be a challenge. Many smartphone and desktop applications available on the market can help you set reminders to move during the day.

Sometimes the best exercise can be going outside in the fresh air and walking. It's free and will help to clear your head and get your heart rate up!

Supplements to help:

Swanson Balance B-50 Complex 100 Capsules

B vitamins play numerous important roles throughout the body, from cardiovascular and mental health to energy metabolism.

Swanson Simply HYDRATE Electrolyte Hydration Mix (Lemon-Lime) 30 Packets

Electrolyte blend supports sustained hydration. Includes vitamin B12 and taurine to increase energy and reduce exercise-induced muscle cramping.

Sleep

Without enough sleep, you create an uphill battle in so many different ways. Sleep, how much you have and the quality of it, matters even more than you probably realise, and not getting enough is sabotaging your health and any health goals you might have!

Supplements to help:

NOW Foods Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder 8oz

Perfect for individuals wanting to unwind, magnesium bisglycinate promotes restful sleep and muscle relaxation.

Doctor's Best Ashwagandha with Sensoril 125 mg 60 Veggie Capsules

Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic that can significantly enhance our health and well-being, from reducing stress to supporting immunity and promoting better sleep.

The best time to take ashwagandha is in the evening, as this helps maximise its calming effects, supports better sleep, and aids in night-time recovery.

Self-care is not a luxury; it's a fundamental pillar of good health. By treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you offer to others, you create a positive environment for your physical and mental well-being.

Begin your self-compassion journey today and watch as it transforms your path towards your health goals.