Mental Health Awareness Week is in full swing (May 13th-19th), and it's a time to shine a light on our mental well-being. Let's face it - life can be tough. Between juggling social life, work, family, and everything in between, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we're here with a friendly reminder: take a breather from your hectic schedule and prioritise yourself. Since we're all on our own unique journey, we've whipped up a handy guide packed with tips to help you dial down the stress and amp up your overall well-being.

Move Your Body

Get ready to shake off those stressors and boost your mood with some movement! This year's theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is ‘Movement: Moving more for our mental health.’ It's a gentle nudge reminding us that staying active isn't just about physical health - it's a total game-changer for our mental well-being too. But hey, no pressure to run marathons here! Even a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or some downward-facing dog action can help release endorphins and boost your mood.

Practice Gratitude

Taking a moment each day to count your blessings can do wonders for reducing stress and building mental resilience. Simply jot down three things you're grateful for, whether it's a sunny day, a good cup of coffee, or a chat with a friend. Gratitude is like a superpower - it turns even the smallest moments into reasons to smile.

Try a Digital Detox

Step away from the screens and give yourself a break from the digital world. Try turning off notifications, setting up auto-replies, or instead of scrolling through Instagram, why not spend the time reading, trying out a new hobby or going for a walk? Embrace the calm and enjoy being present in the moment - it's a breath of fresh air in our tech-filled lives. Another tip is if someone is making you feel bad on social media… hit that unfollow button. Don’t be scared to put yourself first.

Catch Those ZZZ’s

Quality sleep is a must for feeling your best, both mentally and physically. Shoot for 7-9 hours of shut-eye each night to keep your mind sharp and your body energised. Set the stage for snoozing success by winding down with a relaxing bedtime routine. Skip the caffeine and alcohol before bed, and opt for some pre-sleep relaxation like reading a good book or soaking in a bubble bath. Your mind and body will thank you in the morning!

Show Yourself Some Love

Self-care isn't selfish - it's essential! Take time to do things that light you up, whether it's pursuing a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply relaxing and recharging your batteries. You deserve it!

Pick Up a Pen

Journaling is a fantastic way to declutter your mind and relieve stress. Scribble down your thoughts, worries, and fears, and watch them lose their power over you. It's like spring cleaning for your mind!

Listen to Music

Feeling stressed? Take a break and listen to some soothing tunes. Music has a magical way of calming the mind, lowering blood pressure, and reducing stress hormones. So, crank up the volume and let the music work its magic.

Laugh It Off

Laughter truly is the best medicine! Whether it's watching a funny movie or sharing jokes with friends, laughter releases feel-good endorphins that boost your mood and decrease levels of the stress-causing hormones cortisol and adrenaline.

Breathe Easy

Deep breathing exercises are a quick and effective way to calm your mind and body. Take a few moments to sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. It's like hitting the reset button for your stress levels. Need a quick exercise? Sit up straight, feet flat on the floor, and hands on your knees. Inhale deeply, feeling your lungs expand, then exhale slowly. Repeat for three to five minutes. Deep breaths oxygenate your blood, calm your body, and clear your mind, so you'll feel refreshed in no time.

Drink Less Caffeine 

While a morning cup of coffee can be a great pick-me-up, too much caffeine can increase feelings of anxiety and stress. Instead, opt for decaf drinks or natural energy boosters like our Dewty Super Greens to keep your energy levels up without the jitters.

Get Outdoors 

Getting yourself outdoors and breathing in the fresh air can really help awaken and relax your body. It is also a great opportunity to get your daily dose of vitamin D. When exposed to natural sunlight, our body produces this sunshine vitamin that plays a crucial role in our immune system and mood. 

Nourish Your Body

You know the saying: you are what you eat. So, fuel your body with goodness. Fresh fruits, veggies, and less alcohol and caffeine do wonders for mental well-being. If you can't pronounce an ingredient, skip it - it's not worth it! Oh, and don't forget about your daily dose of collagen. Packed with essential nutrients, it’s like a secret weapon for keeping you feeling and looking top-notch, inside and out.

Seek Support

If you're struggling, don't be afraid to reach out for help. Whether it's talking to a friend, family member, or mental health professional, seeking support is a brave and important step towards better mental health. For further support, visit the Mental Health Foundation.