Let’s hope that 2022, is a better year for us all!

We’ve endured human losses, job losses, and a host of general uncertainties’; all of which have attributed to the reptilian part of our brain (where we process anxiety and fear) to be: “kept on”, and in high alert.

But, we’re controlling the pandemic now, and we need to try to manage our mental health- in order to get the most out of the year ahead. So, I believe the best advice for us all, including myself, is to work on ourselves, in line with the fragile state of mind we have.

We’ll fall at the first hurdle if we set unrealistic targets. Being truthful about how we’re really feeling: mind/body/soul is the key to our progress this year.

We need to accept that we’ll feel tired, and it’s not just the over-indulging or the weather. The fatigue you have, is a direct symptom of the chemical in your brain, having been kept switched on permanently: the fight or flight mode, which usually only lasts minutes.

You are recuperating, and actually, it’s a helpful perspective to bestow on yourselves; because whilst you may have burning desires and needs: find replacement income/ knuckle down with your studies, etc. – just because it’s the start of the year, you are not issued with superpowers!

It’d be better for you to strengthen your foundations: eat healthier, get enough sleep and exercise. Addressing the more basic aspects of your life first is like clearing an over-grown garden.  You are creating the space for future development.

Healthy eating – Don’t succumb to the miseries of a diet, keep it simple, and attainable to do: tally bars on your device, or in your calendar. Aim for five-seven pieces of fresh fruit and vegetables a day. Get creative with a blender: smoothies, shakes, and soups are a great way to get your quota. Batch cook and freeze tomato-based pasta sauces, or bake a tray of vegetables at the beginning of the week.

Sufficient sleep – In general, adults need between 6-8 hours of sleep a night. Get to know what you need, and practice trying to achieve it until you do. Getting to sleep for many of us has been a real challenge of late: anxiety is like caffeine. If you do awake during the night, it’s best to get out of bed, do something like reading to help tire your eyes, and then clamber back to bed. Meditation is like medicine-free tranquilizers’, and a pursuit you may want to look into. There is a free book on my site called: The Felt Sense which offers several short –cuts in how to reach this state of mind

Exercise – We need a minimum of 2.5 hours of exercise a week, more achievable when you think of it like this. If you can’t get out then climb your stairs or do a quota of exercise by doing some housework.

Improve these aspects of your living first, and you will pave the way forward for a stronger, less anxious you!