Give Your Heart Some Love This February
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. -- Proverbs 4:23
While February is National Heart Month, some attention should be paid to the poetic heart, too.
The heart has a long history of being considered the seat of the soul and emotions. Aristotle thought so and Shakespeare told us, “A light heart lives long.”
Our emotions can affect our physical health and research is showing that people can die of a broken heart.
University College London offers tips for improving your mood and carrying a lighter heart.
1. Wake up earlier
Set your alarm to go off 15 minutes before you normally get up. This extra time will enable you to have a more organized and productive day.
2. Make a friend smile
Making a friend smile is a great way to improve your day. Why not send them a funny video online or send them a text to see how they are doing.
3. Have a quick tidy up
Clear space, clear mind. Make some time, even if it’s only for 5 minutes each day to tidy your environment - your mind will thank you.
4. Write a diary entry
Writing can help you to process your own emotions and feelings. Set a time each day to write these down, and you’ll instantly feel better.
5. Smile at the first stranger you see
Never underestimate the power of a smile. It costs you nothing, but can make someone’s day and will also leave you feeling warm inside.
6. Take a walk
If you are feeling stressed or worried, taking a short walk outside will raise your mood and can also calm you down.
7. Look through old photographs
Looking at old photographs is the ultimate lockdown mood-booster. They will bring back memories and make you feel nostalgic.
8. Put some laundry on
Laundry can be very easy to put off, but the feeling of doing some is much better for your mind than the negative feeling of putting it off.
9. Listen to music
It is well known that music can boost happiness and reduce anxiety. Put on your favorite album and you will notice yourself humming, smiling and dancing in no time.
10. Light a candle
The smell and flicker of the flame on a burning a candle can help with relaxation. Scented candles that use quality essential oils can also induce quality sleep.
11. Eat at least one healthy meal
Unhealthy snacks can be tempting, but your body and mind will thank you for eating at least one healthy meal with fruit and vegetables each day.
12. Do something nice for someone else
Whether it’s walking someone’s dog or giving someone a book you no longer need, small acts of kindness can go a long way and will help you to feel more positive.
13. Do the washing up before you go to bed
Cleaning the dishes after you’ve eaten or before bed is often the last thing you’ll feel like doing, but get into this routine and the next morning will be much more pleasant.
14. Put on an outfit you love
Even when you’re at home all day, putting on some clothes you love will instantly lift your mood and will make you feel ready for the day ahead.
15. Make sure you get enough sleep
Most of us need about 8 hours of sleep a night to repair and renew our bodies, so make sure you get this if you want to wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
More tips below from Sky Lakes Wellness Center.
