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Breathwork for reducing stress

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With deadlines looming, responsibilities piling up and the constant hum of connectivity, stress often feels unavoidable, leaving us overwhelmed and depleted. While we might reach for quick fixes or hope that stress will simply dissipate, there is a powerful and entirely free stress management tool that is available any time: our breath.  This isn't about the automatic breathing we do every second of every day, but about breathwork - the conscious, intentional practice of controlling our breath to influence our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Breathwork has the ability to reduce stress, calm the nervous system and cultivate a sense of inner peace. What is breathwork and why does it matter? At its core, breathwork involves a variety of deliberate breathing techniques designed to optimise our respiratory patterns. Unlike the shallow, often unconscious breathing many of us resort to when busy or stressed, breathwork invites us to take control, guiding our inhalation and exhal...
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Minimalism and its wellbeing benefits

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With the continual rise of social media, it's easy to get caught up in an endless cycle of acquiring more possessions to keep up with the images we see on our screens. However, this pursuit of material wealth can often lead to feelings of stress, anxiety and dissatisfaction.  Minimalism - a lifestyle that emphasises the reduction of material possessions - offers an alternative path to a more positive state of wellbeing. Decluttering for mental clarity One of the most immediate benefits of minimalism comes from the process of decluttering our living space. By removing unnecessary items and organising our belongings, we create a sense of order and calm in our environment. This, in turn, can lead to improved mental clarity and focus. A study published online by the National Library of Medicine notes that “ clutter (an overabundance of possessions) may impede one’s quality of life by interfering with space liveability and social connections and prompting negative affect and financial ...
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Location: United Kingdom
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Creating a vision board

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It’s easy to lose sight of your dreams and aspirations when life gets hectic. Whether you’re working on personal growth, exploring a new career path, or building stronger relationships, creating a vision board can be a powerful way to keep your goals front and centre. More than just a creative decoration, a vision board acts as a daily reminder of what you’re striving for and a source of motivation that can boost your overall wellbeing. What is a vision board? A vision board is a collage of images, words and affirmations that articulate what you want to achieve in your life. By placing this board in a prominent location, you create a visual representation of your aspirations, making them feel more attainable. It’s a wonderful exercise in self-reflection and a gateway to clarity about what you truly desire.   The benefits of creating a vision board ·       Clarified goals : The first step in creating a vision board is defining what you want in your life. Thi...
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Location: United Kingdom
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DIY wellness products to boost your mood

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When we're caught up in our busy lives, prioritising our wellbeing can often take a backseat. However, taking care of our mental and physical health is crucial for living a happy and balanced life. One way to do this is by introducing wellness products into our self-care routine. The best thing is that we can quite easily make them ourselves. Not only can these products be cost-effective and customisable, but they also allow you to take control of your mental and physical wellbeing.   1. Self-care boxes: a little luxury Self-care boxes are a great way to treat yourself to a little luxury and relaxation. By creating your own self-care box, you can tailor it to your specific needs and preferences. Here's what you'll need: - A box or container (this could be a wooden crate, a basket or even a decorative tin) - A selection of self-care goodies (such as face masks, scented candles, bath salts and cosy socks) - A personal message or affirmation  To create your self-...
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Location: United Kingdom
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The joys of reading: how getting lost in a good book can boost your wellbeing

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    With so many demands for our attention in our personal and professional lives, it’s no surprise that our minds are constantly racing. It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and stressed, but what if we told you there's a simple way to calm your mind, escape reality and boost your wellbeing all at the same time?   The power of reading Reading has been a popular pastime for centuries, and for good reason. When we immerse ourselves in a good book, our minds are transported to a different world where we are free from the stresses and worries of everyday life. This mental escape can be incredibly powerful, allowing us to relax, unwind and recharge.   The science behind the books Over the years, studies have shown that reading can have a significant impact on our wellbeing. A study published in The Queen’s Reading Room found that even five minutes of reading can  “reduce stress by nearly 20%, improve concentration and focus by as much as 11% and that r...
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Location: United Kingdom
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Embracing our imperfections

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  With the constant presence of social media platforms, we are bombarded with images of 'perfection'. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok showcase the highlight reels of other people's lives, making it easy to compare and feel like we don't measure up. Sadly, we’re led to believe that in order to be worthy we must be flawless - that our bodies, minds and lives must be perfect. The truth is that perfection is an unattainable goal. It is a myth that can cause very real damage to our mental and emotional wellbeing. By striving for an unrealistic ideal, we're setting ourselves up for disappointment, anxiety and self-criticism. For example, a study published by the National Library of Medicine found a “70% increase in self-reported depressive symptoms” in people who use social media regularly. Clearly, it’s time to shift our focus. Instead of trying to achieve perfection, let's learn to embrace our imperfections. Let's celebrate our uniqueness, our qui...
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Location: United Kingdom
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The benefits of outdoor swimming

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As the sun rises over the tranquil waters of a serene lake or the crashing waves of a rugged coastline, a sense of excitement and anticipation builds. For those who brave the elements to indulge in outdoor swimming, the rewards are huge. From improved physical health to enhanced mental wellbeing, outdoor swimming offers a unique and exhilarating experience that can transform your life. By understanding the benefits and taking necessary precautions to stay safe in cold water, you can unlock the secrets to improved wellbeing and join the growing community of outdoor swimmers. So, why not take the plunge and discover the mental and physical wellbeing benefits of outdoor swimming? Why it's worth taking the plunge In the Journal of Environmental Psychology , a study on swimming outdoors among nature concluded that “open water swimming may lead to improvements in mood and wellbeing, reductions in mental distress symptomatology, and was experienced as a positive, enriching process for...
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Location: United Kingdom
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