Our Tips for Boosting Wellbeing in Challenging Times

In these extraordinary times, focusing on our wellbeing has never seemed more important.

The last three months have been challenging for us all in different ways, bringing isolation and boredom to financial difficulties or the fear or reality of losing a loved one. Yet for many of us, the sudden and dramatic shift in our circumstances has also provided an opportunity for us to pause, and to reflect on our priorities and lifestyles.

To mark World Wellbeing Week, here is some inspiration from our team on how to look after ourselves and each other, putting our wellbeing front and centre as the lockdown restrictions gradually begin to ease.

  1. CONNECT WITH NATURE

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More and more research is being done into the relationship between nature and wellbeing, with some evidence suggesting that those who are more connected to nature tend to experience improved wellbeing.

Whether it's going for a walk in a woodland (known by the Japanese as shinrin yoku 'forest bathing'), donating to a charity to plant a tree, finding time for a walk each day in your local park, or opting for sustainable products which don't harm our environment and celebrate our love of trees, there are plenty of ways to connect with nature, even without escaping the city. To view our collection of sustainable furniture and products, click here.

2. EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVE SIDE

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We're firm believers in the ability of creative activity to bring us joy. A study by the BBC and UCL last year revealed that even very short amounts of time spent on a creative hobby such as painting, pottery or playing a musical instrument, can have a positive impact on our mental health. 

Despite many lockdown measures still being in place, being creative doesn't need to be a solitary activity. Online courses can be a great way to explore your creativity with others, including Soulcraft at Home, which we recently launched as a way to stay connected to our community throughout lockdown and explore how creativity can feed the soul. Click here to find out more and register your interest in future courses.




3. CONNECT WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

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There's no doubt that socialising can be great for boosting mood, but staying connected with our loved ones has been challenging throughout lockdown. As travel restrictions remain in place and many vulnerable people are facing continued isolation, connecting with our neighbours and looking out for one another is more important than ever.

Apps such as Nextdoor are excellent ways to see if your neighbours need assistance. Or if you'd like to donate to our People's Kitchen: To Your Door initiative, providing hot meals and doorstep chats to vulnerable members of our community, click here