We’re all living in a most challenging era, with unprecedented rising costs, and global uncertainties.

Now, more than ever before, we have to let our intellect guide us; we do after all have the most intelligent brain of the species. If we look at our emotions, as though they were noisy children in a playground, and we focus on the notion that we are the teacher, we can start to foster and grow a sense of control and peace over our feelings. We can aim to make incremental positive changes to our outlook, to help make us feel better.

Of course, it’s not easy, no new mind shift is. It takes practice and daily management, not to fret, for example about the news.   We have to remind ourselves, that we as individuals, can only control our actions and our thoughts. We can therefore choose to turn the television off.  I recall this daily, especially when I feel anxious, and so I say aloud, usually in the mirror: “I can only control my actions and thoughts”. Chant it as many times as you like because it’s true and helpful. To me it’s like hoovering the carpet of the mind, once that’s done, you will sense a higher level of personal control and perception.

Learning breathing exercises is essential in strengthening our mental and physical health. If you’re not doing this yet, then try to look up some easy techniques online. I practice mine every day, it only takes a few minutes to do.

Next, and although it’s much written about, taking the time out, every day, to practice gratitude, is essential for mental health. If you have a bed and food, then you’re far luckier than many. I’ve been viewing every other commodity in my life, such as my car, as a luxury, and value everything I have.

I also enjoy being frugal and pride myself on not wasting food. I cook from scratch and make gallons of tasty nutritious soups. I use up old shampoos and toiletries before I buy new ones, and have no qualms about buying second-hand items.

I am naturally kind, because I’ve known cruelty, and when we help each other, then we spread happier vibes. We spread human love, and that is all that really matters.

I like to be amongst nature, and even if I lived in a tower block, then I would befriend the sparrows, outside my window. If you can’t get out of your home, then pop a wildlife program on, or play some birdsong on your devices.

I say none of these things lightly. I’m still looking for more work, post- Covid, and my annoying disability, cerebral palsy, is affecting my ability to walk. I am lucky though, because I’ve been given an urgent referral, and remind myself that I can talk and walk since I wasn’t expected to do either.

Lastly, stop comparing yourselves to anyone else. Instead, just look at what your small steps of self–improvement have been. I for example stretch, and move my body every day. I have an evening routine, and I stick to it. I have been doing so, for three years and it truly has helped my mental health enormously.

I hope this is helpful.

SUNNY wishes,

Emma x