Eat your greens!

So, I have been doing a lot of reading lately and I came across an idea I really liked the sound of; in how we can build emotional immunity to stress. It talked about laying a foundation of wellness within ourselves in order to build up our emotional immunity. A bit like when we were little, when our adults would tell us to “eat our greens” so we could grow physically big and strong.

Boosting our internal coping skills is really going to help us but, to do this well we must pay attention and nurture the core areas of sleep, exercise, and nutrition to create a foundation for the growing of our emotional immunity. Honestly, without sleep I am rubbish, I make bad choices, opt for sugar laden food and I am a bit grumpy to be honest.

Sometimes we just need to be more considerate of our self-choices. We need to slow down and think things through. If you need to drink more water, pop reminders on your phone and do not ignore the reminders. Think about what advice you would give to a friend if they were in your shoes and then be that friend to yourself.

So have a look at some of the things you can do now to support the growth of your emotional immunity.

Establish a routine

Routine is so important in managing your mental and physical health. Try and stick to a routine.

Eat a healthy diet

Fresh healthy food, like fruits and vegetables, are important to managing your physical and mental well-being. Avoid too many high fat and high sugar foods that offer empty calories.

Exercise

Get some fresh air and exercise, whatever works for you.

Make an uplifting playlist

Get a playlist of your favourite music. It can help lift your mood and calm your anxiety and fears.

Establish connections

Connect safely with family, friends, and colleagues.

Nourish your spirit

Don’t ignore your spiritual health. Meditation, faith, and prayer are all important at times like these.

Focus

Try not to focus on the things you cannot change right now. Instead, focus on the things you can control.

Never be afraid to reach out for help. You are important and you matter.

Stay well x
Kim Fry
UKSA Welfare Officer