Wellbeing on a budget

It might surprise you to know that your kitchen holds the secret to glowing, youthful skin, with potential face masks on every shelf. Make a paste out of finely ground oatmeal and milk for a gentle anti-inflammatory cleanser, or blend honey and cinnamon for congested or acne-prone skin. Turmeric heals and brightens, egg whites tighten the skin, and coffee grounds are believed to stimulate blood flow and exfoliate dead cells (and combined with coconut oil they make an awesome body scrub). And before you throw away those used tea bags, stick them in the fridge for ten minutes, then place them over your eyes to reduce puffiness (green tea is best) or sooth irritation (try chamomile).

We are constantly bombarded with email notifications and social media updates and have 24/7 access to endless streams of information and entertainment. But the more digitally dependent we become, the more vital it is to step away. Taking a break from technology (be it reducing your daily screen time, creating device-free zones in your home, or unplugging at the weekends) can be transformative for our mental health, physical health and relationships. Not only will you feel more focused and productive, but you’ll sleep better and your stress levels will subside. Less time on devices means connecting more meaningfully with the people you love and having more bandwidth and motivation to achieve your goals – whether that’s learning a new hobby, improving your fitness, or exploring the great outdoors.

Sleep is your secret weapon – a biological powerhouse that can heal cells, repair tissues, aid hormone regulation, build immunity and boost cognitive function. And that’s just for starters. But for many of us getting enough quality sleep is a huge challenge. Shift the dial by creating a regular sleep schedule. Start by setting a “bedtime” alarm at the same time each evening – that’s your cue to turn off Netflix, put down the phone and begin your bedtime routine. Avoid caffeine after midday, leave a couple of hours between eating and sleeping, and one hour before bed dim the lights in your home and have a hot shower. This helps your body cool to the optimal temperature for sleep. Once you’re tucked up under the covers, bookend your day with the practice of gratitude and activate the body’s relaxation response with some box breathing – breath in through your nose for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, exhale through your mouth for four counts, then hold for four counts. Nail your sleep and every other healthy habit will be infinitely easier to maintain.