A new year signals the start of new beginnings. Yet, with more local lockdowns introduced earlier this week, it might start to feel more like last March all over again. As many of us prepare to spend more time at home this winter, looking after our wellbeing has never been more important. Read on to discover five simple steps you can take to look after yourself and loved ones during these uncertain times. 01. Reconnect with Nature Embrace a winter walk Although the nights might begin to draw in more quickly over the winter months, taking some time out of your day to go for a walk round your local neighbourhood can work wonders for your overall wellbeing. Not only does a brisk walk help to reduce stress levels and boost your mood, it also gives you a chance to explore your surroundings and reconnect with nature. Listen to the new podcast you've been meaning to listen to, or rediscover the comforting melodies of your favourite feel-good albums. Whatever you choose and no matter how far you go, you'll be surprised how much better you feel after getting some fresh air! 02. Create Kinder Resolutions Smaller steps you can stick to The start of a new year often becomes the time of year to set resolutions. These often include broad, ambitious aims such as becoming fitter or losing weight. But, rather than simply setting out a statement to try follow, why not try framing your resolutions a little differently this year? Break your resolution down into smaller, more manageable steps, focusing on how each step will make you feel. Instead of committing yourself to exercising to lose a certain amount of weight, try focusing on the benefits of exercising to make you feel good. This slight shift in mindset helps you become more committed to sticking to your goals and allow you an opportunity to be kinder to yourself. 03. Scent the Scene Improve your mood with fragrance Aromatherapy is a practice which has been used for years, and involves the use of plant extracts and essential oils to help promote enhanced wellbeing. Certain scents can affect our mood and even trigger certain memories in our mind, which is why we use only the finest aromas in our collections. From the soothing oils of lime, rose and sandalwood in After the Rain to the evocative, floral aromas of Scottish gorse in our Wild Gorse fragrance, bring the evocative scents of Arran into your home with the calming glow of our hand-poured scented candles. 04. Call loves ones Enjoy catch-ups at home Weekly virtual quizzes and online meetings have taken their toll, leaving many of us feeling fatigued even at the mere mention of a video call. But it's important to keep in touch with friends and family during these uncertain times. Whether it's a quick hello over the phone or a weekly video call (possibly without the quizzes!), taking some time to reconnect with loved ones is a simple step you can take to catch up from the comfort of your own home. 05. Improve your Sleep Take time to relax & reset Spending more time at home can make it harder to fall asleep at night. Turn your bedroom into an at-home sleep sanctuary with a few simple steps. Switch your phone on silent, immerse yourself in the next chapter of your latest read, or try doing some gentle stretches before bed to help prepare both mind and body for a restful night's sleep. For an added step of serenity, apply a generous spritz of our Glen Iorsa Calming Mist to pillows and pulse points and allow our gentle blend of lavender and spearmint to restore inner calm. Discover our most calming collections here.
