Here’s a new perspective on Valentine’s Day: Self-Love! We’re here to remind you of how special you are! Taking care of your mind, body and soul is the best route to happiness. It’s time to focus just on you – take a look at these simple ways to practice self-love and improve your well-being each week.

Say Yes to Yoga

It’s important to take time to stay active and maintain wellbeing in any way possible. Yoga is a great way to do that from your own front room! Just 15 minutes of yoga a day can alter your brain chemistry and boost your mood, transforming your mental and physical health in so many ways. Studies have shown that yoga can decrease the secretion of cortisol (the primary stress hormone), which in turn can improve your overall health. What’s more, making yoga part of your daily routine can benefit your flexibility and muscle strength.

If you’re working from home or spending large parts of your day sitting, yoga stretches can help improve your posture and loosen you up. The benefits are clear and finding yoga classes or tutorials on YouTube is easy. Here’s a few top tips to help you get started:

• Wear clothing which is breathable and easy to move in like a baselayer top and leggings or shorts. You’re going to sweat so garments that can wick moisture are ideal. Forget shoes – barefoot is best.
• Remember to breath! Observing your breathing is the key to calming the mind which can help memory. Slow down your breathing and breathe deeply from the pit of your stomach to the top of your lungs.
• Find the right space in your home. It’s important that you have enough room to lay out your yoga mat and stretch, plus choose a place that is quiet and calming.

Yoga can be a pretty intense workout, so fuel your body with something before you start but keep it light. An energy bar or pre-workout snack 30 minutes before should help; plus, don’t forget to drink a full glass of water.

Call a Friend

It’s human nature to seek contact with others. We’re social creatures by habit and so not seeing friends of family can be challenging. But remember that you’re not alone. Thankfully in this modern digital age, we can be better connected with those we love even when we’re not together. So pick up the phone, power up your laptop or type a text to someone and check in to see how they’re doing. You could even arrange a walk or go for a coffee with them!

Eat Well

We eat for all sorts of reasons and snacking can be a sign that you are thirsty, bored, anxious or sad. Eating a healthy and balanced diet is not just beneficial for your physical health, but the right kinds of food can also boost your brain power, immune system and mood. Here are a few tips to help you eat well.

• Writing a shopping list can help you to focus on the essentials, meaning you are less likely to browse for snacks and treats. Planning out the week’s meals before hitting the shops or ordering your delivery is an easy way to balance what you buy.
• Snacks can be an essential ‘pick-me-up’ but it is important to show moderation. Also swap those crisps or chocolate bars for a healthier option
• Eating your greens and finding time for fruit means you’ll stay topped up with rich vitamins and minerals that will support healthy immune function
• Keep a mealtime routine to ensure you’re not over-eating. In fact, following a normal routine for eating and sleeping is a great way to break up the day and boost your mood

Reading

Searching for an escape? Any budding bookworm will tell you that sticking your nose into a good story is the perfect remedy. Scientific studies have shown that reading stimulates the brain and engages your imagination. This leads to a boost in your mood, a lowering of stress levels and an improvement in how you focus. From adventure stories and cultural classics, to brilliant biographies and dastardly whodunits, lose yourself in the pages of a good book. Not your thing? Download a podcast or audiobook and let them do the talking while you relax.

Get Some Fresh Air

Stepping outdoors for a local walk or bike ride can have both physical and mental benefits. Oxygen is essential in maintaining healthy brain function and growth. When a person takes a walk outside, the increased levels of oxygen can actually improve brain function and concentration. Studies have also shown that spending time in nature actually reduces stress by lowering your heart rate and giving you time to clear your head. Powerful endorphins are produced which are great for regulating your mood and giving you that positive feeling. So what are you doing sat here reading this? Head outdoors and get your recommended daily dose of FRESH AIR!

From Me to Me

How often to you prioritise yourself? Setting aside ‘Me Time’ is the best self-love present you can give yourself. Forget the excuses and the busy schedule; set aside time each day where you simply do something that you love. Listen to your favourite track and dance around the living room, find a quiet space and meditate, or soak in a bubbly bath. Me Time is personal and a great way to recharge your batteries.

Reserve a little love for yourself this Valentine’s day and make the most of the time you can spare each day to practice some ‘self-love’. How do you look after your wellbeing? Share you tips with us.