Top Tips for Prioritising Self-Care

Monday 13th May to Sunday 19th May 2024 marks Mental Health Awareness Week. Every year, one in four people experience a mental health problem, which can include anxiety, stress and sleep difficulties. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we catch up with the Lumie team to discuss their personal strategies for prioritising self-care and activities that support their mental well-being. 

1. Get outside: Spending time outdoors has a positive impact on mental well-being. One study found that people reported a more positive sense of well-being after spending 120 minutes outdoors per week - this was the case whether the time was spent in one block or across several shorter periods.

2. Pursue your hobbies: Our daily lives can be hectic and it can sometimes feel difficult to find time to prioritise our hobbies but this is so important for our mental well-being. Whether this means reading a book, getting creative or spending time with loved ones, try to find time to do things that you enjoy amongst the busyness of every day life.

3. Incorporate movement into your daily routine: Physical activity has a positive impact on both physical and mental well-being. This includes managing stress, boosting mood and improving sleep. Try to find an activity that works for you - yoga, walking, running and so many other possibilities!

4. Find activities that help you to unwind: In our recent sleep health survey, 46.1% of respondents stated that they struggle to wind down and go to sleep. Establishing a digital sunset ritual and winding down from digital activities in the evening can have a positive impact on our mental well-being and on our sleeping patterns. Consider reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby away from the screen.

5. Prioritise good quality sleep: Getting good quality sleep is something that many of us struggle with. In our recent sleep health survey, 64% of respondents said that they feel unrefreshed and tired upon waking. Establishing a consistent bedtime and waking routine can have hugely positive effects on our sleep quality and mental health. Optimising your sleep environment is crucial for good quality sleep and in particular you should try to avoid exposure to blue light, emitted by screens, in the evenings as this can be highly alerting. Instead, why not unwind to soothing sleep sounds and the soft glow of a Lumie sunset and wake gently with a gradual Lumie sunrise, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready for the day?

If you are struggling with your mental health, remember that you are not alone. Please seek help by contacting one of the following helplines in the UK:

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Support for men experiencing feelings of depression or despair.

Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (Daily from 5 pm-midnight)

Website: CALM

Mind: Provides advice and support for those experiencing mental health issues.

Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm)

Website: Mind

NHS 111: For urgent medical help or advice when it's not a life-threatening situation.

Phone: 111 (24/7 helpline)

Website: NHS 111

Samaritans: Confidential support for anyone in distress.

Phone: 116 123 (Free 24/7 helpline)

Website: Samaritans