Wellbeing is a hot topic that is always being discussed. Now more than ever, it’s important to make sure that you are taking care of yourself and trying your best to look after your wellbeing.
Our short guide has 5 ideas to help you to start looking after yourself a bit more.
Get Active
Exercise is great for your physical health and overall fitness, but it can also improve your mental wellbeing. What you do physically with your body can have a powerful effect on your mind. Exercise is proven to release feel-good hormones like endorphins which can help to boost your mood and can help improve the way that you feel about yourself. It doesn’t have to be anything too intense, a quick walk or run, or an at home workout or yoga class should all help.
Connect with People
Good relationships with family and friends are important for mental wellbeing, as strong social connections can increase your feelings of happiness and self-worth. Relationships give feelings of security and a greater sense of purpose, so make sure that you keep talking and keep working on your important social relationships. We’re not able to physically go and see a lot of our loved ones at the moment, so pick up the phone or have a video-call and just check in with them – you’ll feel better for it, and so will they.
Keep Learning
Learning a new skill can help improve or maintain wellbeing as when mastering something new, a sense of achievement, self-confidence and self-esteem comes along with it too. If you’re looking for ideas on something new to try, take a look at our 5 boredom busters guide here (link) for some ideas.
Give to others
Giving to others is always a good thing to, but it can also give you an increased sense of purpose and make you feel happier. Now is a great opportunity to practice some simple acts of kindness to help others out. It can be as simple as having a chat with a friend and checking they are ok, offering to help an elderly neighbour do their shopping or cooking a meal for the other people living in your house.
Take Notice
It can be easy to go day-to-day without stopping and noticing what’s going on around you or in your life especially when in unusual or stressful circumstances. By stopping, taking notice and paying more attention to the present moment including your feelings and thoughts, you can improve your mental wellbeing by just acknowledging those thoughts and feelings. A sense of increased mindfulness can also involve just appreciating the smaller things in life such as the smell of freshly cut grass or the sun shining through your window.
Plan a road trip with friends
Planning a road trip with friends can be an excellent way to bolster mental health, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and camaraderie. The very act of planning a trip can invigorate one’s mind, providing a sense of purpose and anticipation.
Collaborating with friends on the itinerary allows for shared excitement and creativity. This process not only distracts from everyday stresses but also promotes positive thinking as the group collectively looks forward to new experiences.
Once on the road, the benefits multiply. The change of scenery can be incredibly refreshing, breaking the monotony of everyday life and providing a mental reset. Exploring new destinations stimulates the mind, while spontaneous adventures can reignite a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Planning a road trip with friends is more than just a holiday; it is an investment in mental health. So gather your friends, map out your route, and hit the road for both an adventure and a mental health boost.
Where to go?
Embarking on a road trip with friends across the UK is an excellent way to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds. One delightful route is the journey from the bustling streets of London to the serene landscapes of the Lake District.
Along the way, you can explore quaint villages, enjoy picturesque countryside views, and stop at charming pubs for a traditional meal.
Another fantastic idea is to drive along the stunning coastline of Cornwall, where you can bask in the beauty of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and enchanting fishing towns.
The freedom of the open road and the joy of shared experiences can go a long way in creating positive feelings among friends, making these adventures unforgettable.
Temporary car insurance considerations
Planning a road trip can be an exhilarating experience, filled with the promise of new adventures and stunning landscapes. However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is ensuring you have the right insurance coverage.
This is where temporary car insurance can be a game changer. Unlike traditional policies, temporary car insurance offers flexible coverage options that can be tailored to the duration of your trip, whether you’re looking for daily car insurance or hourly car insurance.
This means you won’t be paying for unnecessary coverage once your adventure is over.
Moreover, temporary car insurance provides peace of mind by ensuring that you’re protected against accidents or unforeseen incidents on the open road.
It’s also an ideal solution if you’re planning to share driving duties with friends or family members who aren’t listed on your primary insurance policy.
What should I take on a road trip with friends?
You can read our full guide on what to keep in your car for a weekend road trip but embarking on a road trip with friends is an adventure that requires some essential items to ensure a smooth journey.
Firstly, pack a comprehensive first aid kit for any unforeseen mishaps. Snacks and drinks are vital for keeping energy levels up and avoiding unnecessary stops. Don’t forget a reliable GPS or map to navigate your route efficiently.
A playlist of everyone’s favourite tunes can make the trip more enjoyable, while portable chargers will keep devices powered for communication and entertainment.
