by Karen Alexander, Sunshima guest blog writer
I like to be optimistic but even I have to admit that 2023 promises to be a challenging year for us all. We are generally more worried and anxious about the future and a Healthy Minds poll by The American Psychiatric Association found that more US adults expected to be stressed in 2023 than at the same time last year. The same poll also found that more people intended to take up activities which would boost their mental health. So, when the going gets tough, it is even more important to look after yourself and prioritise self-care by looking after your physical and mental health.
1. Don’t Focus on the Bad Stuff
Look after your mind by not seeking out bad news or sad social media stories. Most of the time there is not much you can do to affect the situation, so you feel helpless, and it adds to your anxiety. Instead look for stories that will lift and inspire you. Just search for good news stories and you will be surprised at what you find.
2. Volunteer
You may feel there is nothing you can do to alleviate some of the problems facing the world, instead you can have an effect in your area by helping others in your town. Being able to make a difference in this way, will increase your self-esteem, benefit your wellbeing and may help you make some new friends. Do-it.org is a database of UK volunteering opportunities and of course you can also search for what is available in your area online or visit the local community hub.
3. Make Time for Yourself
This can be hard, as our lives tend to be busy but this is a necessity not a luxury. Pamper yourself with a relaxing bath and candles, read books and/or watch films. Yoga and meditation are especially beneficial for calm and relaxation. And let’s not forget walking outdoors and enjoying the fresh air. The main thing is to do something/s for you, remember this is time for you to recharge.
4. Practise Gratitude
Rather than seeing the things that are not working in your life or you feel are lacking, look at what is good and what you actually have. Research has shown that grateful people sleep better, feel less lonely and recover from stress faster. There are different ways to practise gratitude from keeping a gratitude journal to having a gratitude jar. Do whatever works for you!
5. Be Kind to Yourself and Others
2023 promises to be a challenging year for most of us, so remember to be kind, after all you don’t know what somebody else is going through, everyone has their own struggle even those who present their online lives as amazing. Also, don’t forget to cut yourself some slack when you feel you should have done better or when things don’t go your way. Celebrate what you achieved and do not beat yourself up for what was not perfect.
We hope you like our suggestions and realise that this year more than ever, it is important to look after yourself and make self-care a priority in your life.