Right now, we live in a more connected world than ever before but for many people, the level of isolation and detachment is increasing. Pressures of social media showing everything from the ‘perfect plate’, through to the best matched wardrobe and ideal loving space can make us think we are missing out or just not good enough. It is important to remind ourselves that much of what we see is very carefully curated and planned. If only you could see the pile of washing up in the sink just out of shot of that exquisite plate of food or know that the elegantly dressed person took three hours and ten changes of clothes just to get that one look. And then there is the photoshopping, AI and endless filters.
We need to remember it’s not all that it seems, but that can be easier said than done, especially if you are feeling low, experiencing anxiety or other mental and physical issues.
Each May, the Mental Health Foundation runs Mental Health Awareness Week, highlighting the impact of mental health issues and also demonstrating and offering positive and helpful solutions. Their theme this year is ‘Let’s get together for good’ and aims to help us find ways to connect with a community that can support us.
Maybe it’s a book club or a local meet up with a gardening club, it could be an online weekly chat with a group of people who share the same interest as you. The idea is that we build connections, make a break in our routine, have an excuse to get outside and get some fresh air, make new friends and more.
Reaching out and connecting can have a massive and positive effect on our wellbeing. You can find out more about their programme and ideas here.
This time of year, can see lots of additional stresses and strains that can also have an impact. Exam stress, organising holidays and managing expectations, worry about travel, to name a few.
So along with looking out to family, friends and beyond for support, what else can you do yourself? The good news is that some simple lifestyle changes can have a big impact and it doesn’t have to involve changing your world completely.
As the weather warms up, increase your fluid intake. It is easy to get dehydrated and that can have a knock-on effect on so many areas of the body from digestion to brain function and more. Herbal teas, water infused with fruits or vegetables such as lemon or cucumbers can be a great way to help you drink more if you are not a fan of plain water.
Plan your meals, it can not only save money and avoid food waste, it can also avoid those moments when you hungry and reach for sugary snacks that give a quick boost but soon lead you wanting more or feeling just as sluggish.
With better weather, it is often easier to eat lighter foods and more fresh fruit and salads. Growing salad leaves, tomatoes and herbs can be done in small space. Maybe investigate growing your own salad this summer resulting in fresh food, a chance to get outside and a sense of achievement too!
When it comes to supplements, tweaking your regime can also make a difference. B vitamins can help reduce tiredness and fatigue and support a healthy nervous system. A multi vitamin can be a good way of giving you a wide range of nutrients to support your overall diet.
Magnesium is useful to help relax muscles and also contributes to normal psychological function. It has a synergistic effect when taken with a B complex too.
Pantothenic acid, vitamin B5, contributes to normal mental function and energy boosting metabolism, it can be a useful addition to your regime. It combines well with the ayurvedic herbs Bacopa monnieri and Panax ginseng too.
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) is as recently discovered B-vitamin like nutrient that works in combination with Co Q10. Co Q10 is present in the mitochondria of our cells, the engine room of our cells. Research shows that Co Q10 is also an important antioxidant and can be a useful supplement for a busy lifestyle and works well along with multi vitamins and other supplements.
As we get into summer, take time to enjoy the (hopefully) good weather. If you are feeling isolated, look for local meet ups or events to help give you focus and a change to experience something with others. Forget the picture perfect world of social media, give yourself chance to relax and step back for a moment. A cup of tea in the garden, a walk in the park or a new summer hobby. Maximise the abundance of fresh food around and have a quick look to ensure your supplement regime is the best it can be. Enjoy the sunshine!
