taking a moment

It sounds really simple. To take a moment. However, when you’re in the thick of it, it can be really easy to forget. I was meant to write this for the beginning of February, but unlike my super colleague Alexis - I am not a published author - and so have been wondering what to write. Then whilst taking my dog Betty for a walk, in the pouring rain, I noticed I felt better than I did before I went out. A surprise realisation because I really do hate the rain. This made me think, just getting out the house even if for a short time, has a positive impact on our mental health and our outlook. What other things could we do? Now some of these suggestions won’t float everyones boat, but even if you find one thing that gives you a 5 minute break, it’s worth having a go.

• Calling / messaging a friend or family member (I added messaging because I don’t think I’ve had a phone conversation with anyone for a few years now)

• Getting out for a walk and taking time to notice what’s going on around you…. flowers, birds singing - try to aim for the nice stuff rather than traffic or building works.

• Eating something you love

• Meeting friends for a coffee (or a glass of wine)

• Attending a supportive network of people in the same situation as you

• Go for a swim

• Head to a place in nature where you feel comfort (mine is anywhere near the sea)

• Read

• Listen to music (really loudly)

• If all else fails, just hide in the toilet with a cup of tea (we’ve all been there)

What I will say, is that all of these things can help us regulate our nervous system and bring down the rise in cortisol (pesky stress hormone) because unless we’re about to fight a sabre-tooth tiger, it does more harm than good. Alexis and I will continue to write monthly. If you have any ideas on what you’d like us to cover or you feel that we can support you through a challenging time, we are here.

Gemma