Helping the Sydney community with relationships, parenting, ageing, disability, pastoral services and mental wellbeing.
Celebrating Feel Good February, here are some helpful tips for improving wellbeing.
The healing power of nature is too good to be ignored, whether it is air-purifying plants or natural scents, you’ll find something to ease stress and anxiety, cleanse the air, and soothe your soul.
The right plants can have a remarkable effect on your mood and that of those around you – a rosemary plant has a positive impact on mood, focus, stress, and productivity. Plus, rosemary tastes delicious on roast vegetables and lamb, can be used to infuse olive oil, added to boiling water for a tea that reduces bloating (strain the leaves out before drinking) and the sprigs can be used as skewers on the barbecue!
Peace lilies are said to improve air quality by as much as 60%, whilst also bringing a sense of peace and relaxation. They are also believed to bring good fortune and harmony into a home and manage humidity levels.
Another brilliant plant for improving indoor air quality is the snake plant, also known as ‘mother-in-law’s tongue’. It converts carbon dioxide into oxygen and acts as an effective defense against airborne allergies because it absorbs pollutants.
Maranta leuconeura, also known as the ‘prayer plant’, because the leaves raise to an upright position at night like hands folded in prayer, symbolizes gratitude, and acts as a natural air purifier. It is thought the leaves curl up in evening prayer and unfurl in the morning because they are chasing the sun.
The right aroma can take you back to a happy memory, lift your spirits or help you relax. Vanilla is a scent that promises contentment, perhaps it is because of the childhood link to baking and sweet things or the fact that vanilla oil’s aroma stimulates the brain to release endorphins (happy hormones) to deliver a feeling of calm and satisfaction.
Similarly, lavender is another relaxing scent and one that is believed to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, and nausea. It calms and soothes and a drop or two on your pillowcase can help you sleep better naturally.
Need to concentrate, try the scent of peppermint, and indulge in peppermint tea to help with digestive or sinus issues, and peppermint chocolate for a sweet boost to your immune system and surprisingly as a treat that minimizes appetite!
The scent of freshly cut grass is always a favourite, along with the smell of rain… so a barefoot walk in the park right before the rain hits is practically guaranteed to make you feel good and remind you of the peace and beauty Mother Nature shares with us.
As little as 30 minutes of physical activity each day can result in increased strength and energy and reduced risk of heart attacks, type 2 diabetes, and falls. Despite this, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 55% of Australians aren’t taking part in the recommended levels of physical activity.
Some simple ways to increase your physical activity include:
Frequent practices of relaxation can maintain heart health, reduce stress and muscle tension, improves brain function and memory, and helps to avoid depression, anxiety, and obesity. It can also boost your immune system and help reduce the symptoms of other medical and psychological disorders.
Here are four easy techniques you can do almost anywhere:
