We live in a busier world than ever, and sometimes it seems we’re always on the go. It’s increasingly hard to wind down and ‘turn off’. So why not use Women’s Health Week (3rd – 7th September) as an excuse to block out some time for some serious self-care. Making just a few positive changes to your lifestyle can result in seismic shifts in your general outlook. Even those of us who feel like we never stop must remember the importance of making time for ourselves.
Take a cue from our tips below and indulge in yourself for once!
Turn off your phone
We all know how bad our constant phone use is, but we carry on anyway. We’re not suggesting you chuck the phone for the entire week, but maybe just a few hours in the evenings. Just putting it on airplane mode will help, so you’re free of buzzing notifications. It can be a great way to get your head clear.
Get into meditation
Meditation is an increasingly popular way of combating the stresses of the modern world. There are myriad apps out there you can choose from (the likes of Mindfulness, Headspace and Calm are all favourites of ours). And why not double down on the relaxing effects of meditation by meditating on a Shakti Mat.
Acupressure mats such as Shakti have fans in high places (think the likes of Miranda Kerr), and that’s no surprise: just 20 minutes a day can support deep, restful sleep, relaxation of tense muscles, recovery from headaches or muscular injury, circulation as well as overall well-being. It’s the perfect way to get a peaceful, quiet, moment in your day.
It’s a simple but effective modern-day health tool, based on the Indian ancient practice of lying on a bed of nails, designed to enhance relaxation and assist with stress, anxiety sleep problems and pain.
You can also relax with a clear conscience with a Shakti Mat, as they’re made by hand in Shakti’s ‘Gratitude Workshop’ in India using 100% certified organic cotton, natural dyes, and recyclable, durable ABS non-toxic plastic.
Take a long bath
Load it up with some bathing salts, or a bath bomb of your choice, lock the door and relax. Take this time to yourself to de-stress after a long day of work. It’s a great way to make the transition to a calmer, more peaceful state of mind.
Read a book
This is another fail-safe way to take your mind off our modern-world worries. Not only will this get you off your phone, but it’ll also help transport you from your current setting entirely. Try Other Minds, Peter Godfrey-Smith’s investigation into the evolution and development of consciousness, or Dolly Alderton’s Everything I Know About Love, a witty and insightful memoir by a former dating columnist.
Cook a meal from scratch
Make the time to pick out a wholesome meal to cook from scratch. Not only is a good cooking session therapeutic for the soul, it also means that by the time you’re finished you’ll have a home-cooked, nutritious meal for yourself. A win-win in anyone’s books.
