At this unprecedented time, it is more important than ever to notice our feelings, and find ways to nourish our minds and bodies to ensure that we are as happy and comfortable as possible. Here, we outline a few quick and simple things you can do every day to help lift your mood and beat the blues. 

BE A CULTURE VULTURE 

Research has found that viewing art can increase dopamine levels (the happy hormone) in the same area of the brain that registers romantic love. Studies also show that those who regularly appreciate art are happier, calmer and less depressed than those who don’t. The good news is that although we are all cooped up inside at the moment, there’s no need to miss out on our cultural hit. There is now a whole host of virtual art tours available online brought to you by galleries from near and far, from the Tate Modern and the Courtauld Gallery in London, to the Guggenheim Bilbao in Spain and Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum. You can check out some of BALANCE’s favourite recommendations here.

STAY GROUNDED

Practising breathing techniques is an effective way to stay grounded and reduce anxiety. Simple techniques such as Box Breathing, where you breath in and out as you imagine each breath tracing the side of a square, is a quick way to regather focus and release built-up tension in the body. For three more simple breathing techniques that you can try now, have a read of this short article by Breath Coach, Alan Dolan. For more breathwork examples and guided classes you can download the flourish app from The Breath Guy, a.k.a the brilliant Richie Bostock, or sign up to Stuart Sandeman’s weekly Breathpod zoom meetings. 

CBD FOR BETTER Z’S

During times of uncertainty, our anxiety levels are likely to increase and we may struggle to sleep well. Taking a CBD product as part of your daily routine could help to relieve some of the uneasiness and tension you experience, in turn, enabling you to get a better night’s sleep. CBII’s CBD Oil (200mg, £39) is a full-spectrum product that can simply be dropped under the tongue twice daily to help combat feelings of anxiety and restlessness, allowing you to get through the day more calmly. We recommend taking it around an hour before bed to aid a good night’s sleep. And we all know there’s no better way to boost our mood than restful slumber. 

FOOD FOR THE SOUL

Food can have a big impact on our mood and energy levels. If you eat lots of stodgy junk food, for example, you are likely to feel more tired, lethargic and unmotivated. It may sound simple but make sure that you are eating three good meals a day, at the same times each day. This will help to keep you in a regular routine, and make sure that your body and mind are properly nourished throughout the day. For tips on specific foods to eat to keep you feeling great, check out this article, and be sure to browse our ‘Food’ section for delicious, wholesome and inspiring recipes. 

MOVE YOURSELF HAPPY

As we know, exercise can help boost endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. If you’re used to working out in the gym, or don’t really know how to work out at home, turning your living room into a gym floor can seem like an enormous, or even impossible task. However, there is more content than ever before now available online from PTs, fitness experts, and even your favourite influencer, to help you get up and go in the comfort of your own home. If you’re in need of some inspiration to get you started, have a look through our ‘Body’ section where you’ll find a variety of workouts, with at least one to suit you. Alternatively, check out these great online workouts that we’ve curated specifically to help get you through quarantine.