How to prepare for a 3-month backpacking trip in South East Asia

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm excited to announce, I'll be fulfilling my dream of heading back to South East Asia in January for 3 months of backpacking. I couldn't be more excited to get back to the backpacking way of life, discover new places, eat delicious foods and meet new people.

Whether you're new to backpacking or planning a trip, here is how to prepare for 3 months of backpacking.

This article contains paid content placements.

How to prepare for a 3 month backpacking trip in South East Asia

Figure out who you're going with

Deciding you're planning to go backpacking is a big decision, whether it's for one month, three months or a whole year. When you've made the decision to go, you need to choose who you want to go with as it's a big thing to plan. It could be your partner, friends, or sibling or you can go solo. Each decision means a slightly different style of planning.

Decide on the route and timeframe

You can go backpacking for as long as you want but making the decision on how long you have in mind, can help you save, budget and decide on the itinerary you'd like to follow. I've decided to travel for three months and visit seven different countries: Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Phillippines and Indonesia. You may decide to spend three months in one place or do as many destinations as me.

Research each place and decide on a rough itinerary

If you're spending longer in a place, there's more wiggle room to be spontaneous and travel slower, however, if you're spending less time in each place, it'll be best to do some research and decide if there are any must-have places you want to visit or specific landmarks to see. I've made a rough itinerary of the different places I want to go to and include the must-see things and do.

Book travel vaccinations

I cannot stress this point more because your health is the most important thing. It's not worth catching anything and being unwell in a place where healthcare isn't as accessible as back home. Check with your doctors and book an appointment in with the travel clinic and see what vaccinations they recommend for you to get. I had to get quite a few including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis and Tetanus. I will say vaccinations can be quite expensive and you will need to budget for them, mine came to around £400. Some may be available on the NHS, it depends on your doctors.

Check with countries that need visas

Visas are another essential thing you need to do. Some countries allow you to enter in with no visa, some require a form for you to fill out whilst others may need a visa to apply for. Do this with plenty of time as sometimes they can take a while to approve it.

Book flights and accommodation

Once you have everything mapped out, it's time to begin booking flights and accommodation. I would highly recommend booking flights in advance because it makes things easier and cheaper in the long run. With accommodation, you can book it whilst you're travelling around, however, to feel more prepared, book the accommodation in advance. I've gone through and booked all the accommodation for the whole stay, saving me time and worry when arriving at each destination.

Book any other transport

Getting from one place to the other isn't always by flying, it could be through buses, trains or boats. You can easily buy tickets for these when you've arrived, however, booking in advance can make your trip a little bit smoother and sets more of a permanent agenda. I find 12Go as the best place to book this type of transport.

Buy travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any type of trip, especially when you're away for a long period of time as there's more time for potential things to go wrong. Purchasing the right policy is key; ensure you list all of your medical conditions, and cover the right countries and any activities you're looking to choose.

Organise a sim card

Phoning and texting when on a different continent can be very expensive and why purchasing the appropriate sim card can help with communicating whilst you're away. You can get sim cards at the airport or anywhere locally in the country you're visiting. 

Decide what your budget will be for the trip

When you've decided on where you're going and for how long, it's ideal to set a budget for the ideal amount you'd like to spend on the trip. Then, ensure you bring extra than the budget in case something happens or things are more expensive than you expect.

Download e-books, shows, films and podcasts

Months of backpacking mean you'll be experiencing many flights, bus journeys, trains and boats and you'll want to keep yourself occupied during them. Download as much entertainment as you can including e-books, tv shows, films and podcasts to help long travel journeys a lot more fun.

Download travel apps

Travel apps will come in handy when you're travelling around such as Grab for tuk tuks and taxi rides across Asia, and your accommodation apps including Booking.com, Hostel World and Airbnb. Also, if you've to go the travel card from the post office, their app, ensures you can top it up and see your balance.

Photocopy documents

Your passport, visas and any useful documentation are vital when travelling. Unfortunately, accidents happen and you may lose important documents and why I'd recommend photocopying them so you have evidence of the documents. 

Create a packing list and decide what you need to buy

Organising your packing list can help you feel more prepared when jetting off. I'd recommend writing a list weeks before and keeping a note of the things you need to buy and what you already have. Once things have been bought, write a new list of what you need to pack and tick it off as you go. Don't forget packing cubes, they always help organise your belongings. You can shop here and browse a comfortable selection of clothing for your tip as well.

Make note of emergency numbers 

You never know when you may have an emergency and by noting down the emergency numbers in each country, there at hand should you need them.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What other tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

Successes of 2022

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I cannot believe we're coming to the end of 2022, this has to be one of the quickest years ever. I never thought I would be where I'm at now at the beginning of 2022; this year has done a 360 turn in a good way. 

I love seeing people's highlights of the year and reading about their accomplishments, hence why I also like to write mine down. It's something that'll be great to read back on as the years go on. Whether you love a highlights post like me or want to share yours, here are my successes of 2022.

Successes of 2022

Travelling to five different places

Travelling is the love of my life and during 2020 and 2021, because of the pandemic, I couldn't travel as much as I wanted to. However, in 2022, with the world going back to somewhat normal and travel laws lifting again, I could fulfil my travel dreams and stick to my five trips a year rule. This year, I visited Budapest, Stockholm, Dubrovnik, and Sicily and visited my best friend in Dubai, as well as a staycation in London. 

Going on my first solo trip

I've always wanted to do a solo trip, however, I wasn't brave enough and the opportunity never arose. Although at the beginning of this year when a friend couldn't make a trip I had booked, I ended up going alone. Initially, I was hesitant, but when I arrived I fell in love with the solo travel way of life. There was so much freedom and pride as I walked around exploring a new city on my own accord, and on my own schedule. When I look back at 18-year-old me who was basically terrified of my own shadow, I can't help but beam with pride. 

Building my freelance writing business

Being a freelance writer has been a dream of mine for a very long time and this year it has really become a reality. I set myself the goal at the beginning of the year to be full-time freelance at the end of it and I'm excited to say, that's exactly what I've done. I've managed to build up a clientele of regular clients and one-off exciting projects in freelance writing and social media management, and honestly, I couldn't be happier. It's definitely been a year of learning in all aspects of freelance, as well as developing my writing craft further. Although it has been hard at times, I've loved every minute.

Meeting my partner

I never thought this year would be a year where I found the partner of my dreams. I genuinely thought I would be single for years and I was happy doing so, looking for a partner wasn't even on the cards and then he walked into my life, and it was the best thing that ever happened to me. I feel incredibly grateful to meet someone who loves me unconditionally, supports me and encourages me every step of the way. We are a team.

Finding an exercise routine I like

I love to exercise and keep active, it really benefits my mental and physical health, as well as boosts my productivity for the day. In 2021, I was all about the gym, going most days and really enjoying it, however by the beginning of this year, I found it wasn't really my thing anymore. Instead, I've fallen in love with pilates and now do that every day as well as a combination of dance workout routines.

Moving out

Moving out of my parent's home has been on the agenda for a while now, however, the right opportunity never came. This year, that changed and I moved out of my hometown with my partner and couldn't be happier in my new home.

Booking a backpacking trip

I've been dreaming of returning to south-east Asia since 2019, the last time I went and this year, I've booked a trip for next year, for a total of three months and I cannot wait. I'm incredibly excited to get my backpack out again and experience the freedom backpacking entails, as well as explore many new countries.

Reaching my savings goals

I've been extensively saving this year in order to book myself the backpacking trip and I was excited that not only did I save the amount I wanted, but I also exceeded it, giving me some extra money in my savings account.

Learning to put myself first

As a people pleaser who loves to care for everyone around me, I always found it hard to put my needs before everyone else's. However, this year, I've started to put myself first a bit more, learning my needs are just as important as everybody else's.

Developing stronger bonds with family and friends

Developing my self-love journey has meant falling in love with myself more, I've learned to love and be grateful for the relationships around me more, growing stronger bonds. I'm incredibly lucky to be surrounded by some wonderful friends and the most supportive and loving family, and partner.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What are your successes?

Thank you for reading <3

Reminders to hear before the new year

 Well hello to you my reader chums! 2022 has nearly ended, and I can't believe the year is nearly up. I say this every year, but it genuinely feels like I've blinked, and the year was over. This year has been one of the best, I feel incredibly grateful to have gotten back into travelling, meet my partner and spend quality time with family and friends. It has been another year of healing, furthering self-love for myself and growing even more.

Reminders to hear before the new year

The new year I find can be a time when many of us feel pressured into setting goals and changing our whole lives. However, just because it's a new year, it doesn't mean you need to completely change things, you can set goals which are sustainable for you.

Whether you're nervous or excited about the new year, here are the reminders you need to hear before the new year begins.

You don't need to become a new person

When it comes to the new year, everyone around us sets these big goals to try to be a new person and live a new life. And although most of this comes from good intentions, you don't need to follow people in committing to massive plans. Your life and your goals are okay as they are, you don't have to make drastic changes to match everybody else. You can make smaller goals or keep living the life you do, it's your new year, after all, it's your life. Nobody cares what you do as much as you do, so you should try and do what makes you happy.

The new year is what you make of it

The new year means something different to everybody. For me, I like it as a mini fresh start and a chance to look back on what the past year has been like. Also, how I'd like to go forward in the new year, whether that's making some changes or continuing work I've done in the previous year. Decide what the new year means to you and focus on that mantra instead of comparing yourself to everybody else.

This year doesn't have to have been the best year ever

Not everyone is living their best life. We've all had hard times, we've all had moments this year where we've struggled and that's okay. It's important to sit and remind yourself of that. You're not alone, you have people around you who have also been struggling.

Social media isn't real 

Social media is a point I talk about all the time, especially in reminder posts because it's the worst thing for comparison. This time of year, everyone posts their highlight reels and photos of the past year and as exciting as this is to see, if you've had a bad year, it can be hard to watch. Remind yourself, social media isn't real, people are sharing their highlights, not the daily ongoings of their lives.

You can start your goals at any point in the year

The new year doesn't mean you have to set goals, you can change your life or set goals at any point in the year, whether that's on a random Monday or at the end of the year. Goals are useful at any point and can be worked towards whenever you want.

Your happiness is the main goal

Your happiness is key in your life, you deserve to feel happy, and love the skin you're in and the life you have. In the new year, with all the pressure of new goals, we forget to focus on all the amazing things we already have, whether it's the people around us, where we live or our passions in life. These things feed into our happiness and make us who we are; don't stray from that because you're trying to change your life.

Age is just a number

Another new year means undoubtedly turning another year older. Whatever you feel about age, whether it's good or bad, it's important to understand it's only a number. Your age doesn't define who you are and what you need to achieve by a certain number. As I've gotten older, the pressure of my twenties definitely has hit harder, but I try to focus on the things I've achieved and not what society tells me I need to achieve.

Life really is what you make it

Life is incredible, life is about growth, life is about learning and we should all learn to appreciate it. We're all going to experience ups and downs, it's part of life. Whatever you're going through at the minute, it will pass and good things are coming. And, if you are experiencing a wonderful day currently, keep riding that wave, it's so exciting.

You are good enough

You are worthy, you are good enough, and you are amazing. You deserve fab things to happen to you. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

How to find moments of calm at Christmas

 Well hello to you my reader chums! Tis' the season for big social gatherings, festive markets and everyone's calendars being fully booked, and sometimes, it can feel pretty overwhelming. 

If you're someone who finds the festive season a little bit hectic and stressful, here's my guide on how to find moments of calm at Christmas

How to find moments of calm at Christmas

Book out designated 'you' time

It can seem impossible to have any kind of 'you' time over the festive season, especially with a busy calendar, however, it is possible. The best way to do this is by booking out regular 'you' time which suits you. Whether it's an hour every day or a dedicated day a week, choose something which works with your schedule and wellbeing. It could even be 10 minutes before bed after a social gathering to unwind and take that time to reflect on your mind.

Set boundaries for yourself in social settings

Boundaries are key for your mental health and wellbeing, especially during an overwhelming period. I struggle with social anxiety and find if there's too much socialising, I need that time to build my social coins up again, ensuring my wellbeing is intact for other events. For this reason, if you struggle in social settings, set boundaries. Give yourself a get-out clause or an excuse to allow you to leave when you like, such as you need to drive home. Alternatively, set yourself a time for when you want to leave as this gives you an estimated time to leave the social setting. 

Also, another thing to consider is learning to say no. Just because you've been invited to every event, it doesn't mean you have to attend them all. Attend the social occasions that suit you and you'll enjoy them, rather than going to ones out of festive pressure.

Don't overbook the calendars 

This is probably the hardest thing to do, especially when you want to fit family, friends, your partner and any work plans into the short month of December. However, make sure you keep evenings free and a day at the weekend here or there to schedule in that designated 'you' time or do something festive you're planning on your own accord. An overbooked calendar will add to the Christmas anxiety and cause additional stress. 

Implement exercise into your daily routine 

Exercise and fresh air are life's medicine as cheesy as they say and honestly make a world of difference on a day-to-day basis in the festive period. When it comes to exercise, it doesn't need to be intense or something you're not used to, it can be slow exercise. Slow exercise can mean a stretching routine, pilates or taking a leisurely walk around your street. As long as you feel the benefits of moving your body, it can do wonders for your mental health.

Practise gratitude and mediation 

I've written many articles about gratitude and how it can change your life for the better. It helps you find the good things in life, even when everything isn't going well, and that can easily be applied to Christmas when some of us feel overwhelmed. Practising gratitude and naming everything you're grateful for can switch your mindset and help you feel a sense of calm. Mediation aids the practising of gratitude; they're two practises which go hand in hand. Mediation brings you back to the moment, whilst gratitude helps point out the little things of the day bringing you joy.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What other tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

Top 10 tips for long-haul flights

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm a big fan of flying long-haul, I prefer it to short-haul flights. There's something about being able to get settled, plan out what film you're going to watch and eat surprise aeroplane food which really excites me. 

Whether you're new to flying or want some helpful advice, here are my top 10 tips for long-haul flights.

This article contains paid content placements.

Top 10 tips for long-haul flights

Plan a comfortable outfit

Comfort is key with long-haul flights. Whether it's 7 or 14 hours, you want to stay as comfortable as possible throughout the whole airport journey from arriving to landing at your destination. To feel comfortable, plan an outfit you can move easily in, sleep in and have a complete comfort appeal to it. My favourite type of outfit is loose trousers or a jumpsuit with lots of room and a jumper to throw over the top to keep warm. Also, when it comes to shoes, wear a pair which feels like a dream on your feet, I usually go for trainers. DK active have an excellent selection of activewear for your exercise and workout routine.

Bring things to do for the airport 

With longer flights, you're more likely to check in luggage which means you will arrive at the airport a lot earlier than if you just have a carry-on. An airport is a busy place and even though this can be true, sometimes I've found myself getting through checking in luggage and security and like 20 minutes, which leaves a lot of time before the gate is called. This is why you should plan for things to do to keep yourself occupied if mooching around the shops isn't your thing. It could be a book, catching up on a life admin to-do list or listening to a podcast, whatever will keep your mind occupied.

Prebook your food (if you want changes)

I made this mistake on my last flight. However, for all long-haul flights, you will be given a meal including snacks and drinks also. If you're not interested in the set menu or have allergens, ensure when purchasing the flight, you change the food to suit your meal preferences.

Pack an extra pillow

On a long-haul flight, you want to be comfortable and most likely, rest. Most airlines provide you with a pillow which is always a dream, however, for additional support, purchase a travel neck pillow. This can help provide you support and make a couple hours of sleep possible.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration is so common on a long-haul flight because you either forget to drink or you're moving about. I always find I can get the worst headaches when flying long-haul because I don't have fresh air for a long period of time and don't drink as much. Try and bring a water bottle onto the flight because even though the flight attendants will bring you a couple of drinks here and there, you may need more than offered to stay hydrated.

Move around as much as you can 

Sitting in one place for an extended period of time isn't good for your body especially if it's 8 hours plus. I would recommend trying to get up and moving around as much as you can, not just for the toilet. Every few hours, get up and walk along the aisle and back to move your legs and keep the blood pumping. It can help you feel a lot better overall.

Bring home comforts 

If you're an anxious flyer or the thought of a long-haul flight is worrying, bring home comforts which will make you feel at ease or safe. This could be a particular jumper, a cuddly toy or even a specific pillow. You could even spray your favourite perfume onto your clothes to help you feel relaxed. There's always something you can do to feel more at home.

Find the things which bring you calm

Even if you're a common flyer, sometimes the flying experience can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. For that reason, it's important to know the things which bring you a sense of calm. This could range from a breathing app, a certain playlist or a certain scent. Whatever the thing is which brings you calm, have it with you so you can take it out at any point to reduce stress.

Remind yourself not everything can always go to plan

Unfortunately, as much as we plan things, not everything can go by the book, especially when it comes to flying. From delays, and cancellations to random mishaps, you need to mentally prepare yourself for blips along the way. I don't necessarily mean anxiety thoughts, but life hiccups, and things you can't control. Remind yourself that whatever happens, it will all be okay.

Enjoy the entertainment and relax

Long-haul flights can be so much fun! I love having the opportunity of enjoying the on-flight entertainment and eat the free food, as well as being away from my phone for a few hours. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view of being up in the sky and adventure of your new destination.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What other tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3


How to deal with Christmas anxiety

 Well hello to you my reader chums! Tis' the season for social events, present planning, festivities and busy calendars. It's a busy time for those who celebrate Christmas, whether you're young or old. However, it's also a time that can cause anxiety for many reasons, this could be financial or mental health.

I find the Christmas season very stressful because it is so busy and usually my calendar is completely full, plus there's the pressure of finding presents and being present. 

If you're dealing with Christmas anxiety or want help with stress, here are my best tips on coping with Christmas anxiety.

How to deal with Christmas anxiety

Plan in advance as possible

I plan Christmas earlier and earlier every year as this helps me free up time in December to enjoy what the festivities bring. This post is probably going out a bit too late to use this point as a tip, however, even if you can spend a few hours planning today, it'll save you time in the run-up to Christmas. I usually like to start my planning in October time as then I can organise how much money I'm going to put towards Christmas, and what I'm going to get everyone as well as social plans.

Schedule in evenings for 'you' time

'You' time is incredibly important anyway but especially during the festive season. For me, I find it can be very overwhelming with work, social plans and little things to do here and there, so it's crucial for me to schedule quiet evenings or days. This gives me a chance to calm down and be present with myself and my mind. If I push myself too hard, I'll end up burning out and not being able to enjoy Christmas.

Ensure you get a good night's sleep

This may sound like a simple point, however, getting the right amount of sleep every night does wonders for your mental health, especially in the festive season when it's cold and dark and many people are stressed. I would set an ideal bedtime and wake-up time every day and try to stick with that as much as possible. It'll help the flow of your body as well as allow you to rest.

Stick to your usual schedule as much as possible

This leads me to your routine. The festive month of December can throw our usual schedule out of whack because of getting together, parties, social occasions and a different flow to work in some companies. Due to this, I would advise trying to stick to your routine as much as possible. This could be your fifteen minutes of exercise in the morning, regular food prep or bedtime. Whatever it is, a sense of normality can bring calm.

Practice gratitude

Gratitude can change your world in many ways. Being grateful can help us see everything in a more positive light, especially if things are really hard. I know this year many people are going to be struggling even more at Christmas time and practising gratitude may be hard when things are already hard. However, finding the smallest of things can bring you some form of hope. For example, being grateful for those we have around us and the little things which make us smile every day

Understand the true meaning of Christmas

Christmas isn't about the gifts, it's not about the flashy decorations or the perfect Instagram picture. Christmas is about the love we have for one another, it's the season of kindness and doing things for other people. It's the time of bringing people together and enjoying the wonderful thing that is connection. However, I think many of us get lost in the world of the media and marketing, thinking we all need big presents, expensive decorations and loads of food for a good time. The most important thing at Christmas is you're spending time with people who mean the most to you, and that's enough.

Avoid getting sucked into the Xmas expectations

In a world of social media, Christmas expectations are huge. I always see these pretty pictures of families with matching pyjamas, happy smiles, expensive gifts and every Christmas outing under the sun. And although a lot of these things many can enjoy, you don't need to do all of these things to have a good Christmas. Christmas is different for everyone and you don't need to get sucked into the expectations of others to enjoy yourselves.

Enjoy the good things Christmas brings

Despite the anxiety and stress Christmas can bring, think about all the good things it also brings. For example, I love being able to spend quality time with my family and friends over the period. I love how I'm able to do kind things for people by planning gifts or experiences we can do together.

Ask for help

It's okay to ask for help even at Christmas time. Don't let social media fool you that everybody is happy and peppy, as it's a time of year when many do struggle with their mental health. If you're not okay, reach out to family, friends, colleagues or one of the mental health services. You're not alone. 

Move at your own pace

Christmas can be fast-paced and that's one of the reasons it causes stress and anxiety among people. However, you don't have to keep to that fast pace, you can take it one step at a time so you can enjoy it and do Christmas how you want. Organise a schedule that works for you, say no when it doesn't feel right and put yourself first if it's all too much.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

Learning to be more present: my top tips

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I don't know about you but being an adult, I've found life to be incredibly busy. Whether I'm working, socialising, practising my hobbies, travelling or trying to work on my self-development, it can be hard to stay present. However, the older I'm getting, the more I realise and appreciate how important it is to be present at the moment.

Time goes by so quickly and often we're so fixated on achieving the next big thing we forget to pause and appreciate the moment and be present in it. If you're struggling to be present or want to try to do it more, here are my best tips.

Learning to be more present: my top tips

Have 'slow days'

Over the past few years, I've really appreciated the slower days in life. The days when my calendar is booked up with a million things in the day. And, instead, I can take the day as it comes, spending longer on activities and appreciating the little things. These are the days when I can spend longer making a good breakfast, spend hours delving into a good book and take my time on a long beach walk. These days help me appreciate the wonderful things in the world and how there is so much beauty in simplicity, whilst helping me stay present in the everyday. Slow days are my favourite.

Get out and about in nature

Nature is one of the best things in life. We're so lucky to be surrounded by incredible amounts of beauty. I find nature is a great way to be present and discover the little gems right on your doorstep. This is why I'd recommend getting out in nature as much as possible. Whether it's a daily walk or a weekly activity, witnessing what nature can do can help change your focus from the busy thoughts lingering in your mind. 

Practice your creativity more

This is definitely something I've focused on a lot more this year and have been so grateful to. Being creative is one of my favourite things, I'm always writing after all. However, there are so many other ways to be creative such as painting and baking. Practising creativity is a wonderful opportunity to open your mind as well as be present. Creativity takes a lot of concentration and that means you can really focus on what you're doing and take the activity slowly.

Have no phone evenings

In a fast-paced world, technology is probably one of the biggest contributors to preventing us from being present and enjoying the little moments. Our phones often distract us and I can admit, I let them distract me far too much sometimes. However, something I've always been passionate about is trying to put my phone away when I'm spending time with someone to give them my full attention. But, I'd like to implement this mantra on evenings that don't involve socialising to avoid me doom scrolling. The times I have done this have really helped me have more fulfilled evenings.

Book more quality time with loved ones

Quality time is incredibly important. It's one of the most important things to me as I love being able to spend quality time with my partner, friends and family. It allows me to develop my relationships and enjoy others' company. Quality time also is great for being present as I can sit and enjoy the company of whoever I'm with and live in that moment as it comes.

Practice daily gratitude

I've spoken about gratitude a lot lately, however, it's really helped me form a more positive mindset and enjoy the everyday things life brings. Daily gratitude helps with being present because I can recognise the small good things about my day and why they made it so wonderful. It takes away the pressure from the need for larger things.

Spend longer on tasks

This links with my comment about having slower days and how it's important to take your time with things. Taking the time and spending longer on activities allows you to appreciate them more, be fully present and help you reduce stress. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What else would you add?

Thank you for reading <3


5 ways to work on your self-development in a relationship

 Well hello to you my reader chums! When I got into a relationship, one of my biggest priorities was to not lose myself in the relationship and still continue to grow in myself and with my goals. Relationships are meant to help you grow together but still allow you a healthy environment to grow as individuals. 

Whether you're new to a relationship or struggling with working on yourself, here are the 5 ways to work on your self-development in a relationship.

5 ways to work on your self-development in a relationship

Make time for your hobbies and passions

We all have hobbies and activities which make our hearts soar. This shouldn't stop when you get into a relationship, in fact, it's incredibly important. You shouldn't become your relationship, you should still be an individual, and that means working on your hobbies. Making time for them is all down to you. This could be you allocating time every night, taking a class once a week or scheduling out regular time to pursue hobbies. You need to look at your life schedule and see what works for you, to make you happy and aid your self-development.

Schedule out alone time

I've spoken about the importance of alone time, again and again, however, it's even more crucial when in a relationship. This is because when were in a relationship, we often find ourselves always leaning on our partners, which is okay, but it can also prevent our self-development. If we're constantly leaning on someone to help us flourish, cheer us up and regulate our emotions then we'll never learn to do these things on our own accord. This is why, it's essential to schedule alone time, either to run errands, exercise, do your hobbies or simply be with your thoughts. Having these scheduled moments will provide you with the opportunity to work on yourself and learn to enjoy your own space and time. 

Set personal goals monthly/annually

I'm big on goals, and I love nothing more than mapping out my ambitions for the year ahead and having something to work towards. Whether you're goal orientated or looking to implement that in your life, setting goals can be a real benefit in your self-development journey. I would recommend starting small with actionable timelines and then beginning to set larger goals. By having something to work towards, you will ensure to put the time in place to work on yourself and lead to achieving them.

Practise healthy habits

I preach about healthy habits all the time recently and it's this year that I've really taken healthy habits seriously and implemented them. This includes a solid sleeping routine, exercising and starting the day right every day and ensuring I'm doing what's best for my mental health and well-being. Practising healthy habits can help you have the drive and motivation to reach your goals and work on your self-development. These two ideas really go hand in hand with each other.

Work on your self-love journey

I'm a big advocate for self-love, I talk about it all the time. We all deserve to be the love of our own lives, even when we're in a relationship. We're the only constant in our lives from the minute we're born to when we die, and that's why it's essential to learn to love ourselves. Working on your self-love can help you be a better partner and have a happier relationship overall. It can help you understand your emotions, your wants and needs and how to convey them to your partner. It also can help diminish toxic traits in a relationship.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What else would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

5 Ways To Make Self-Care A Priority In Your 20s | AD

Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm a huge advocate for self-care and always talk about how it should be implemented as part of everyday life.

This is a contributed post.

The twenties are often considered to be the best years of one's life. For many, this is a time of exploration and discovery. However, it is also a time when many people experience a great deal of stress. With so much going on, it can be difficult to prioritise self-care. However, there are some simple things that you can do to make sure that you are taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. Here are five ways to make self-care a priority in your twenties.

five ways to make self-care a priority in your twenties.

Adopt A Healthy Skincare Routine

Even if you are busy and stressed, taking care of your skin is important. This means washing your face regularly, using a high-quality moisturiser, and wearing sunscreen. Not only will this help to keep your skin looking its best, but it will also reduce the risk of developing various skin conditions that may be exacerbated by stress. Stress can take its toll on your skin, so by adopting a healthy skincare routine, you can ensure that your skin looks great and stays healthy.

Take Breaks

When you are constantly on the go, it can be easy to forget to take breaks. However, taking regular breaks is essential for both your physical and mental well-being. Breaks give you a chance to rest and rejuvenate, so you can continue working or studying without feeling overwhelmed or stressed out. Try to take a break every few hours, even if it's just for 5-10 minutes. You should also consider taking breaks in the form of long weekends away or short vacations.
Get Enough Sleep:

In our fast-paced world, it can be tempting to skimp on sleep in order to get more done. However, sleep is essential for both your physical and mental health. When you don't get enough sleep, you are more likely to get sick, and you may also find it more difficult to concentrate and handle stress. Therefore it is vital that you aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Eat Healthily

Just as important as getting enough sleep is eating healthy. When you fuel your body with nutritious foods, you give yourself the energy and nutrients you need to function at your best. Of course, that doesn't mean that you can't indulge in your favourite unhealthy foods from time to time. However, try to ensure that meals and snacks are mostly healthy so you can feel your best.

Connect With Loved Ones

Spending time with loved ones is crucial for your mental health. When you feel isolated or alone, it can worsen feelings of depression and anxiety. Connecting with loved ones can help you feel supported and loved, which can, in turn, help you manage stress more effectively. Make an effort to spend time with family and friends regularly, even if it's just through text messages or video chats.


Self-care is essential for our physical and mental health, yet it can be difficult to prioritise when you are constantly on the go. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you are taking care of yourself physically and mentally in your twenties!

How to deal with overthinking

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm a massive overthinker, I always have been. Even the littlest of things can multiply into a million different thoughts, and I think the worse. It's all part of living with anxiety, and really become a part of my everyday life.

This post isn't going to be the solution to stop overthinking, I'm going to share some tips and advice which help me deal with it. Whether you're a worrier or massively overthink, here is my guide on how to deal with overthinking.

How to deal with overthinking

Remind yourself it's your mind doing the talking

This is a point which really helps me when my mind is off on a wander down many roads. Overthinking or wandering thoughts are usually irrational and fabricated, they're not realistic. They're not going to happen or what's going on. This is what I try to remind myself of. Overthinking thoughts isn't logical, they don't make sense and are usually your mind playing tricks on you. Try and remind yourself of this when they keep bothering you.

Have distractions in place

Sometimes it's hard to quieten the thoughts dancing around your mind and this is why distractions can help. I'm not saying they're the answer to help you feel better but they can put your mind at ease for the time being. Whether it's listening to your favourite music, watching a TV show, organising the house or doing one of your favourite hobbies. We all have things which make us feel better and smile. Make a list of those things and have them in place so you can find distractions easily.

Speak to someone to help 

A problem shared is a problem halved. I find talking about my overthinking to others very beneficial as they can help put my mind at rest. What I mean by this, is to remind me my overthinking isn't logical, it's all in my head and nothing like that will happen. They can help bring me back down to earth and be present at the moment a little bit more.

Practice healthy mindful habits

Healthy mindful habits are key to living a better life. This means practising gratitude every day, finding joy in the little things, learning when you need to say no, eating well, exercising regularly and staying social. There are many things which help our well-being and it's important to find the factors which benefit yours. This in turn can help when it comes to overthinking. You'll find if you practice healthy mindful habits, overthinking will become a lot less because you can train your brain to think more positively and grateful.

Have a solid nighttime routine 

Having the right amount of sleep is incredibly important to our mental health and well-being. A solid nighttime routine can help aid a good night of sleep and diminish overthinking patterns. Night routines look different for everyone. It could be spending an hour or so unwinding, from showering, skincare routine, and journaling to practising meditation. Find what works for you. I like to have a skincare routine, read and stay hydrated before bed.

Learn what the triggers of overthinking are

Overthinking doesn't just come out of nowhere, there are causes to make you think like that. Whether it's something someone has said, a negative thought you've had about yourself or a certain situation. Figure out the cause of the overthinking and it can help you find solutions to avoiding the triggers in the first place. 

Keep a log of triggers and solutions 

This leads me to this tip: keep a log. Journalling can be incredibly powerful in helping your figure out the patterns of your mind and how you can help yourself. Note down when the overthinking has begun and what happened before that. After logging in a few times, you may notice a pattern on the triggers and can start to look for solutions.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

Book review: Odd Child Out by Gilly Macmillan

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I love discovering a book and falling in love with it and that's what happened with this book. I picked it up in a local bookshop in one of those surprise packages where you don't know what you're going to read. After I finally picked it up from my TBR pile, I couldn't believe I hadn't read it sooner.

If you're interested in picking up a thriller, here is my full review of Odd Child Out by Gilly Macmillan.

Book review: Odd Child Out by Gilly Macmillan

Plotline

The plot follows two best friends, Noah and Abdi who have been inseparable since they met. They were the two kids who always stuck together when their peers excluded them. However, when a horrible accident leaves Noah in a coma fighting for his life, Abdi is too traumatised to say anything about what happened. It also follows the perspective of DI Jim Clemo, who has returned to work after an enforced leave of absence and is tasked to figure out what happened to Noah. Based in a city where racial tensions are running high, it's down to him to figure out what drove two teenage boys into a situation so desperate. It's up to the boys to talk, but one can't one won't.

Characters and relationships

The characters in this book were fascinating as they all had different personalities and backgrounds, and each person's character development was written so cleverly. Noah was a character that I liked at the beginning and sympathised with because of his illness but as the plot thickened, I swayed away from him and was more interested in learning about the other characters. Abdi, was completely different to Noah despite their friendship and I loved reading about them two and how they were the best of friends and what made their relationship so real.

One of the most interesting parts of the characters was the two families, Noah's and Abdi's. Noah was from a rich white background and lived in a huge mansion, whilst Abdi's family was originally from Somalia and were refugees. I think the author does an incredible job of exploring the issue of race in the UK, and how because of that the investigation of what happened was affected and misunderstood.

The detective was an interesting character to learn more about because the book delved into his life as much as it did the two teenage boys which added layers to the overall plotline.

Overall thoughts

Overall, I absolutely loved this book. I started out thinking it was going to go one way, and it took several complete twists and turns multiple times in the book, and I wasn't sure how it would end. It's a book that didn't just have an incredible twist to figure out what happened to Noah but also touched on many issues. The book delves into understanding what living in a refugee camp can entail and the physical and mental effects it can have on the person. It discusses racial and class issues throughout the storyline. The book also focuses on abusive relationships and really encapsulates what a friendship can look like from two different backgrounds. And, it talks about the hardship of a family when a child is diagnosed with cancer. 

I loved how the book has an incredible amount of insight to it and as well as being able to enjoy a read, I also learnt more about different perspectives and what that means for society as a whole.

Ending

The ending of this book was incredible. I felt like in the last section of the book, all the layers that were built up throughout it finally came together and I sat there thinking 'wow'. It was cleverly written and ended on the right note for the plotline. I will say, the whole book and ending were incredibly heartbreaking and touched on many horrific elements which happen to many people around the world.

I hope you enjoyed this post. Do you like thrillers?

Thank you for reading <3

5 Great Gifts to Get Your Boyfriend for Your Anniversary | AD

Anniversaries are the perfect time to show your partner how much you love them by planning a special day together or buying something you know they will adore. Whether they're into thoughtful gifts or love an adventure, this guide shares 5 great gifts to get your boyfriend for your anniversary. 

AD - This is a paid content placement.

5 Great Gifts to Get Your Boyfriend for Your Anniversary | AD

Get him tickets to watch his favourite sports team

Whether your boyfriend is a football, basketball, hockey or baseball fan, getting him tickets to watch his favourite team play is a great way to show him how much you care. If you can't afford tickets to the big game, consider taking him to see a local team play instead. Either way, he's sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness. You can also purchase souvenir merchandise from the game for him to keep as a memento. Finally, don't forget to include a card letting him know how much you love and appreciate him.

Plan a weekend getaway

A weekend getaway is a great way to show your boyfriend how much you love and appreciate him. If you live in a large city, consider planning a trip to the countryside or vice versa. You can also look into booking a cabin or cottage for the weekend. This is a great way to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Make sure to pack his favourite snacks and drinks and some games or activities to keep him entertained.

Get him a new gadget

Is your boyfriend always asking for the latest gadget? If so, then get him one for your anniversary! Whether it's a new phone, tablet, or laptop, he's sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness. If you're unsure what to get him, consider asking his friends or family for recommendations. You can also look online for reviews of the latest gadgets to help you decide.

Consider getting him jewellery

Jewellery is a classic gift that is perfect for any occasion. For example, if your boyfriend is into watches, consider getting him a new one for your anniversary. You can also get him a ring, cuban link, or bracelet. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something he will appreciate and cherish. You can also add a personal touch by engraving the piece with a special message. In addition to jewellery, you can also get your boyfriend a gift card to his favourite store. This way, he can pick out something he wants or needs.

Plan a romantic dinner

What better way to show your boyfriend how much you love him than by planning a romantic dinner? You can cook his favourite meal or try something new. If you're not the best cook, consider ordering in from a nice restaurant. You can also set up a special table with candles and flowers. Don't forget to put on some soft music to create a romantic atmosphere. Whatever you do, make sure it is something he will remember for years to come.


These are just a few great gift ideas for your boyfriend on your anniversary. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something he will love and appreciate. Most importantly, don't forget to include a card letting him know how much you love him!

Thank you for reading <3

Learning how to accept your emotions: my top tips

 Well hello to you my reader chums! It's part of human nature to not speak about our emotions. As a culture of saying 'I'm fine' and moving on from that, it's become a norm to not say how we're really feeling and speak out.

Since working on my mental health and self-love journey, I've really tried to be more open with my emotions and learn to accept them. I will say, it isn't an easy task to accept my emotions and feel what I'm really feeling. It's easier to suppress and distract, however, that isn't healthy.

If you're learning to deal more with your emotions, here is my guide on how to accept your emotions.

Learning to accept your emotions

Feel what you're really feeling

Have you ever thought anxious and sad about something? And then thought you needed to cheer up or feel better as you don't want to come across as bringing the mood down or negative in any way. In these moments, you need to feel all that you're feeling. If you suppress the emotion, it's likely to come out bigger and make you feel worse in the long run. When your mood is low, practice some self-care to fit that mood. This can mean doing low-energy activities, resting, sleeping or finding a way to release your emotions.

Speak about all the types of emotions

We all have a range of emotions and these can vary depending on how your day has panned out, situations and even your menstrual cycle, if that's something you deal with. As emotions can range, it's important that you feel safe and secure to speak about them and find someone to talk to in all instances. Alternatively, if there's nobody around who you feel comfortable speaking with, try and journal your feelings out and allow yourself to put everything on paper.

Understanding emotions are normal

Nobody is okay all of the time, they do have sad days or angry days, and days when they don't feel like themselves. It's normal to experience a range of emotions. When you understand this concept, it can help you come to terms with your emotions and how you're not singled out. In a world where mental health is now spoken about more, it's the perfect time to be able to express your emotions and listen to others when they're discussing theirs. 

Practice self-care

Self-care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. It doesn't just mean facemasks and bubble baths, it also means learning to say no, setting boundaries and listening to your body in order to care for your mind and body in the right way. Self-care can be taking a rest day when you're not feeling great, it can mean having a social detox, it can mean heading out in nature or spending some alone time. Or, it can mean reflecting on what you're grateful for, writing a positive letter to yourself or doing something you enjoy.

Be kind to yourself

I have to admit, I'm the worst critic of myself and to an extent, we're all like that. It's an unfortunate thing we all do, and why one of the best pieces of advice I always give is 'to speak to yourself like your best friend'. We would never talk to our best friend the way we do for ourselves - and this is why it's important to be kind to yourself. Say daily affirmations, talk yourself up on a bad day, encourage yourself like a cheerleader and treat yourself every now and then. You deserve to be treated well.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What else would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

How to make the most out of your mornings

Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm a morning person, I always have been and I always will be. I love getting up early and making the most out of a day, it makes me feel a lot more accomplished and content. When life gets busy, I can find myself not utilising my mornings the best I can before work and often, it can make me feel a lot less motivated and less energised for the day.

If you're struggling with the morning routine or want to make the most out of your mornings, here's my guide.

Top 10 things to know before your first time in Italy

Get up half an hour earlier

I know setting an early alarm may not be for everyone, however, just half an hour more, means you have a lot more time than you think to get things done before your day begins. You can also build yourself up to turning the clock back earlier and earlier, and having a longer morning with practice. In that half an hour, you can mentally set yourself up for the day and practice many of the habits I've listed below.

Do some form of exercise

I love exercising and since I've been doing it when I get up, it has really made a better impact on my day overall. I'm not saying you need to run a marathon or complete a full gym session, it can be any form of exercise to get your body moving. From a simple stretch routine, and yoga to pilates and even a dance workout or run. Find a type of exercise you enjoy and which will make you feel energised and be good for your mind and body.

Do something you enjoy

We all have different hobbies; the type of things which make our hearts happy. In the morning, it's time to utilise those hobbies, even if you're only spending 20 minutes on them. For example, I've started to wake up and spend 20 minutes reading my book as it's something I love to do and it makes me feel a lot happier about it. It could be listening to your favourite songs, doing some drawing, journalling or playing with your pet. Whatever you enjoy, try and spend a chunk of time doing that in your morning.

Write your to-do list for the day

I'm a sucker for a to-do list. I absolutely love writing them as it clears my mind and gets it all down on paper and that way, I feel less overwhelmed. With that in mind, write a to-do list. This could be a work to-do list, a home to-do list and generally any bigger projects you want to start. Break them down into sections to ensure you have actionable goals to work towards. And, you'll feel great ticking off all your tasks one by one throughout the day.

Avoid the morning scroll

I'm guilty of this for sure and I can imagine many of us are. It seems a natural thing to roll out of bed, grab your phone and scroll on your social media. However, try and avoid this the best you can. Starting a new day fresh staring at your phone isn't going to give you positive and motivating energy for the day. Instead, get up and drink a glass of water, move around and participate in all the other activities listed in this guide. Trust me, you'll feel better for not getting stuck in the loop of endless scrolling and wasting your morning away.

Make a great breakfast

I'm a big breakfast fan and in the mornings when I take the time and energy to pour into my breakfast, I feel a lot better for it. I love making healthy pancakes or a granola-style yoghurt bowl and smoothie. It's more exciting than a boring bowl of cereal and the whole process of making it is fun too. If you feel like that will take too much time, prepare breakfast the night before, this way, you can still eat a hearty breakfast.

Practice some affirmations

I'm a big advocate for self-love and believe we all deserve to talk to ourselves positively and this is where affirmations come into play. The morning is the perfect time to hype yourself up for the day and start on a happy fresh note. I suggest, reciting them in the mirror a few times over with a smile.

Get some fresh air

I'm not saying you need to go on a long walk, but spending 10 minutes outside at least can help you breathe in some fresh air and take a minute or two to just be in the present moment.

I hope you enjoyed this post! What else would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

Book review: Murder at the House on The Hill by Victoria Walters

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm a big fan of thrillers and murder mysteries. I love sitting there and trying to figure out who did it and seeing all the twists and turns which come with this type of novel. They always leave me in suspense and wanting more which is one of my favourite feelings when reading a book. I picked this book up on a whim as it sounded like my kind of thing and honestly, I absolutely loved it. 

If you're looking for a new murder mystery and wholesome read, here is my full review of  Murder at the House on The Hill by Victoria Walters.

Book review: Murder at the House on The Hill by Victoria Walters

Plotline 

The story follows Nancy Hunter and her grandma Jane who run the Dedley Endings Bookshop selling mystery novels in their quiet Cotswold village where nothing ever happens. However, when the esteemed Roth family, open their mansion to guests for the first time in thirty years for a party, things change. The celebrations are cut short when Lucy, recently married to Harry Roth is found dead.

The plot is about figuring out who the murderer was and why. Nancy and Jane decide to investigate and figure out what really happened before the murderer gets away with it.

Characters and relationships

The characters in this novel gave it a wholesome appeal and showed the true nature of what having good people around you is really about. The protagonist Nancy I was really drawn to. She is a bookworm like me and lived a very simple and happy life with all the people she cared about around her. The book really encapsulated what village life is all about. Nancy and Jane's bond was full of love and reminded me of what true love in the family is. I loved the bond between Nancy and Jonathan too, who was her best friend. You can tell they've had their differences but they love each other have friends unconditionally and always have each other's back.

The Roth family were an interesting kettle of fish. My favourite of them all had to be the brothers' Will and Harry as Harry seemed like a sweetheart and my heart really went out to him about his wife's death. Will on the other hand had this different, cheeky and honest vibe to him which I liked in a character as it also showed the difference between the two.

Overall thoughts

Overall, this book was a very typical and I suppose cheesy murder mystery plotline which I absolutely loved. You get some murder mystery books which are very serious, however, this one had more of a light-hearted spin with other themes within the plot including the development of different relationships, friendships and the growth of characters. However, the murder mystery element was very well-thought out and all came together at once, which I liked. The author had a way of throwing me off the track a few times, and I enjoyed the twists. Its setting was beautifully explained, the book had a personal narrative and I loved the emphasis on the love of books within the plotline.

Ending

The ending all came together pretty nicely and the answer to what happened actually made a lot of sense I couldn't wait to discover it. The last few pages weren't my favourite though and I felt it could have had one last high to end on.

Discover more book reviews here.

I hope you enjoyed this review. What's your favourite type of book?

Thank you for reading <3

How to save up for your travels

 Well hello to you my reader chums! I'm an avid traveller, I love nothing more than planning my next trip away and jetting on an adventure. The world is incredibly vast and there are many wonderful things to see and do, and it excites me how much more I still haven't seen.

Whether you're planning a big trip or want to travel more, here are my best tips on how to save up for your travels.

How to save up for your travels

Set a monthly savings goal

We all have different goals when it comes to travelling, whether you're going to Asia for a few months, interrailing in Europe or fancy a luxury 2-week holiday in the Maldives. With different intentions, means the amount needed to be saved can be varied, and this will depend on the time it takes you to save and what you need to save for. I find the best way to hit saving travel goals, is to have a savings intention every month and send that amount as a direct debit into my savings account. This could be £50 to £500, depending on how much you're saving overall and your income.

Set up a side hustle

To earn a bit of extra money when it comes to saving, start up a side hustle. Side hustles can vary in what your skill is and how much time and energy you want to put into it, as this can also fit into organising how much you want to earn from it, to aid the overall savings goal. Whether it's freelance writing, online digital services such as a virtual assistant, selling homemade goods, selling your old things, taking a night job or teaching a topic you're knowledgable about. 

Have a monthly budget for expenses and disposable income

Budgeting is the key to saving money. I would recommend creating a spreadsheet and writing out all your monthly expenses, such as bills and subscriptions, adding in how much you spend on food and then seeing what's left over as disposable income. Decide how much of that income you have to put in your savings and then, how you'll divide it during the rest of the month to spend on fun things or social activities. 

Think smartly when spending money

Following on from the previous point, you need to think smartly about what disposable income you have remaining for the month. Do you have a special occasion that month you need to have money set aside for? How many social plans have you got? Is your car due for its MOT? Do you want a new outfit? Whatever the thing is you're going to spend money on, try and find deals where possible, shop around and do your research. Even saving a couple of pounds here and there will help in the long run. If you're a budget traveller, you'll be used to budgeting for things and only buying what you need.

Cancel unnecessary subscriptions

We all have subscriptions we don't get full use out of, whether it's the gym or a streaming service. Whatever it is, cancel it. If you're not going to use it, you're better off spending that designated money a month towards your savings as trust me, it'll add up after a few months. Every small amount will help in the long run!

Put any extra money left over at the end of the month in your savings

If you've done incredibly well with you're budgeting and overestimated how much you were going to spend in a month, there may be money left before payday. With this, throw it all into your savings and the money will begin to increase even more.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3

5 healthy habits to implement every day

 Well hello to you my reader chums! Living a healthy lifestyle is something many of us strive for and is easier than you may think. In a world of fitness influencers, it can be overwhelming to know what is the right thing to do or how you should be healthy. However, it's really the simple things in life which can make a significant impact on your health and wellbeing.

5 healthy habits to implement everyday

If you're looking to make some healthy changes, these are the everyday healthy habits to implement.

Do a stretching routine

Whether you have a job where you're on the move or you sit in an office all day, moving your body is essential to care for your physical wellbeing. I know exercising is the most important thing, however, stretching can be a massive benefit too. When it comes to stretching, the routines are endless. I think the best way to stretch is in the morning to wake your body up and then at the end of the day to stretch out any pains which may have formed in your body or to recover your body from the day in general. I love to head over to Youtube and search for stretching routines and see which ones are on offer. Alternatively, for something a little more intense, yoga and pilates can have the same effect.

Drink plenty of water

I probably sound like an overplayed record with this point. However, drinking plenty of water is the key to feeling somewhat better and more proactive during the day. I always find, I get headaches or feel a lot more lethargic when I haven't drank a lot of water, and I notice that's the reason too. They say two litres is recommended and I fully believe that because when I drink less than that, I feel the effects. The best way to drink as much as possible is to invest in a good quality water bottle and have it near you throughout the day. You can also set reminders on your phone to drink if it's something you're not good at.

Get some fresh air

Again, this is a pretty simple point. But fresh air isn't only good for your lungs, it's great for your mental and physical wellbeing. It's not natural for us to spend all our time indoors, we need to get out and appreciate nature. Getting some fresh air doesn't have to be a big deal. It can be a quick ten minutes here and there throughout the day to give yourself a break.

Journal your feelings 

This is something I want to do more of because I find writing incredibly therapeutic. It's one of my favourite things to help me feel calm. Get yourself a pretty journal and pop it by your bedside. Start the day or finish the day to get all your thoughts and feelings out, your to-do list, what you're grateful for and positive things about who you are and your life. It's a positive way to release the stress in your mind and have an outlet for communication.

Listen to your body

Our bodies are powerful things. They protect us and know how we work. Listening to your body can do wonders in living a more positive and healthy life. Whether it's to do with your food habits, if you need to take a break or exercise, our bodies will do things to signal when something is wrong and needs to change.

I hope you enjoyed this. What other habits do you think are useful?

Thank you for reading <3