Look after your mind
Anna Richardson, co-founder of
Mindbox, shares her top five tips
for helping to improve mental
wellbeing in 2021.
11
TRY A GRATITUDE
JOURNAL
Did you know that for up to
70% of the time our minds can
focus on negative thoughts?
When we express gratitude,
our brain releases dopamine
and serotonin, two crucial
neurotransmitters responsible
for making us feel good.
According to Harvard Medical
School, people who show
gratitude on a regular basis are
happier, sleep better and
exercise more. So before you
go to bed, write down positive
events that have happened to
you over the day or week.
12
TRAIN
YOUR BRAIN
Training your
brain has a host
of cognitive health benefits,
including improving confidence
and self-esteem. Try an app
94
like Peak Android/iOS (free +
in-app purchases), where you
can play games to test and
improve your focus, memory
and problem-solving skills.
13
CREATE
BOUNDARIES
Many of us have
had to adapt to
working from home and it’s
become too easy to push on
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create physical and mental
boundaries such as designating
an area in which to do your
work. See p82 for more ideas
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create virtual boundaries for
co-workers and family. Use your
email signature to state the
times you are available to
respond to work queries, and
be strict with yourself. Finally,
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increase anxiety, so turn them
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Ask the expert
14
INVEST IN
SOME FREE
‘ECO THERAPY’
Studies have shown that
there’s a connection between
spending time in nature and
reduced stress, anxiety and
depression. Just 90 minutes in
a natural environment lowers
blood pressure, soothes the
mind and decreases levels of
the stress hormone cortisol.
Can’t get outside? Listening to
nature sounds on headphones
will have a similar effect.
–
15 TRAVEL
VIRTUALLY
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associate with your favourite
destinations, such as the
sound of waves, can help you
escape. If you’re a fan of
augmented reality, visit
tryhealium.com and explore
their free virtual journeys.
P
Push notifications can increase
anxiety, so turn them off at the
end of the day Anna Richardson