Tools for managing anxiety

Tools for managing anxiety

Achieving personal development, Mental Health, Mindset change, Tools for managing anxiety

Achieving Personal Development with Perma Hypnotherapy

, 20 Comments

AD / PR – please note – the sessions have been gifted in exchange for my honest thoughts about the process

Earlier in the week, I posted on social media about an exciting zoom meeting I had. I promised further details. Well, here they are. Welcome to Perma hypnotherapy.

If you follow my blog, and my second blog, you’ll know I’m on a journey of transformation. When you go through life-changing events, it’s inevitable you will change in some way. I’ve tried to use my challenging circumstances to my advantage. I’m on my way to achieving personal development.

perma hypnotherapy

Whilst I’m proud of the progress I’ve made, there is still work to be done and I’ve been looking for a solution for a while.

Now I’ve found one. 

Introducing Kevin Whitelaw

Kevin is an accredited Solution Focused Hypnotherapist from Edinburgh, Scotland and a member of the  Association for Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy.

You may be experiencing issues such as anxiety, poor sleep, imposter syndrome, depression, or rebuilding after a significant life change or you’re ready to invest in yourself: developing new skills to sustain your well-being. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy supports you in moving forward to live your best life.

Having managed these issues himself, Kevin is well-placed to understand the challenges of turning that vicious cycle into a virtuous cycle and going on to build a new – better – life. 

His services include Solution Focused Hypnotherapy sessions online at affordable prices. He even offers a free, no obligation, discovery call to understand your situation and establish how he can best help you.

So, if you’re experiencing these issues, or are ready to invest in yourself, a session with Kevin will help you find your answers and feel more confident with the path in front of you.

Kevin can be reached via Perma Hypnotherapy and directly at kevin@permahypnotherapy.co.uk

Download my new workbook – a freebie designed to organise your busy life

Sign up

perma hypnotherapy

What is solution-focused hypnotherapy?

As the name would suggest, solution-focused hypnotherapy looks to help people achieve positive change. Rather than focusing on the ‘problem’, this approach centres around the solution. Using practical strategies, solution-focused hypnotherapy looks to inspire change in a relatively short period of time.

Hypnotherapy Directory

Why I am excited about this new approach to achieving personal development

Some of the points we discussed which particularly resonated with me, were the solution-focused sessions. I no longer want to fixate on the past, but I do want some tools to become a better person for myself and my family. Toddlers are impressionable and this is a key time in my little one’s life. Naturally, I want to set a great example for her. 

I’m taking you on this journey with me. From now on you will see regular blog posts and updates about my sessions. I don’t know where this journey will lead me. But I am certain it will help me improve.

perma hypnotherapy

Sign up for my monthly newsletter, to gain access to exclusive offers & updates

Sign up for my freebie library. Each week there will be a new freebie added to help organise your life and take away some stress!

Pin this for later…

perma hypnotherapy
Achieving personal development, Mental Health, Mindset change, Tools for managing anxiety, wellness

Things Are Changing for the Better but There Is Still Progress to Be Made

, 11 Comments

AD / PR – please note – the sessions have been gifted in exchange for my honest thoughts about the process

At this point in my hypnotherapy course, I feel like I will always work on myself. The fact that our stress buckets constantly fill up with life’s challenges, means it’s ingrained in me that I have to empty it regularly. I simply cannot forget the techniques I am learning.

I will be honest and say that finding meditation time, as a busy mum, is difficult. It’s lovely to take part in the planned hypnotherapy sessions. This is time just for me. And I look forward to it. 

Still Progress to Be Made

So what’s changed since I last updated you? 

The only way I can explain the confidence changes I am experiencing is by explaining the feeling that something is happening in the background. I know I’m different. A better version of me. I’ve progressed. But because I haven’t actively taken part in the change process, I sometimes wonder what is happening behind the scenes. This is the curious, controlling part of me. And I also need to work on that!

Processes working behind the scenes 

Subconsciously certain things are happening. At work, we got the opportunity to apply for additional responsibilities for a role I would love to do. Without really thinking, I just sat and typed my application. I was present and open throughout the whole process and viewed it as a learning experience. 

My previous reaction to stressful situations

I mean nobody likes job interviews, do they? 

If you follow my blog, you will know that in the past I have completely crumbled in situations like this. Even having my interview for this current job, I took Kalms just beforehand and I was nervous. This time it’s different. 

Broadening my horizons… finally 

Because we are on a fixed-term contract at work, I am also taking the same attitude about other opportunities. And instead of not believing in myself, I am thinking about whether the company and the terms are right for me. I have literally never thought like that before in my life. All I can remember is suffering from low self-confidence. And believing I should attend all interviews, and take any opportunity offered because there wouldn’t be another one.

The work must continue 

Because these recent changes are so positive, I know I must continue setting aside time for myself. And during these periods of time, I must look after myself. Whether that be something I love doing, or meditation to achieve these great results. I am happier for working on myself. 

Final thoughts 

I have another session coming up tomorrow and after a break of three weeks, I am so looking forward to it. 

May the personal development continue, long after these wonderful sessions with Kevin have ended. 

Still Progress to Be Made
Mental Health, Mummy life, self-care, Tools for managing anxiety, wellness

4 Ways to Unwind and Destress As a Parent

, 21 Comments

As a mum, let alone any parent, it feels nearly impossible to have some time to yourself, right? Not only do you have the kids, but you have work, you have a household to run (including chores), you have to tend to your spouse, and let’s not forget your friends and family. It’s a lot, and it can be overwhelming. 

Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs in the world and there’s no doubt about it that it can be insanely stressful to the point of a mental breakdown. But how can you destress and unwind? While there isn’t some perfect equation, these are some ideas to help you hold on just a little longer.

Unwind and Destress
Photo by CRYSTALWEED cannabis on Unsplash

Find some “me time” to have each day

Everyone, no matter what age they are, will need to have some “me time”. This includes your little ones as well, as they need to learn to find themselves as entertainment. Maybe your time can happen during your children’s nap time, or when you put them in bed for the night. 

Just try to give yourself at least 30 minutes of “me time” each day. Just do whatever you want, as long as it helps you feel better. Many mums and parents, they’ll nap, read, exercise, or watch shows. Give this to yourself, you’re human, you need it.

Sign up for my monthly newsletter, to gain access to exclusive offers & updates

Sign up for my freebie library. Each week there will be a new freebie added to help organise your life and take away some stress!

Play with your children

Sounds odd, right? Well, depending on the age of your little ones, playing with them could be exactly what you need. Why not let them play with you, something that you love? For instance, you love to go out and do some gardening. For your child, they will consider this as a form of playtime. You get to spend time with them, they get to have fun, and you get to pretty up the garden, it’s a win! Other ideas can include puzzles or even playing video games together.

Give yourself a Spa Day

You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg just to go to a nice spa. Why not bring the whole spa day at home? This can include buying a plush Richard Haworth bathrobe and towel set. Why not play some relaxing music, take a long bath, and have some champagne? Even if you can’t afford a full spa day, at least give yourself an hour or two of being alone and enjoying the self-care you can give yourself. Even something as short as this can help your mentality out.

Look into other ways to de-stress

Being around friends can be one of the greatest ways to just really destress and unwind. So never neglect trying out this method. Usually, hanging out with friends can be a great way to have some of that “me-time” while still getting to interact with friends and keep those connections strong as well.

 So, look into doing this, as this is a great way to give yourself the chance to let go. Never feel guilty for needing some time to destress, parenting is tough, and having little to no time to yourself can actually lead to burnout. 

Unwind and Destress
Mental Health, Tools for managing anxiety, wellness

How Your Mental Health And Physical Health Go Hand In Hand

, 2 Comments

Your mental health and your physical health affect each other. How you think in your mind profoundly affects how your body feels and vice versa, and having the two work in harmony is one of the best ways to stay healthy in your life. But that, of course, is easier said than done. However, we’re here to help you achieve this kind of balance. Here’s a little more information about just how interconnected your mind and body really are. 


Pexels Image – CC0 Licence

Eating Well Gives Your Brain What it Needs

Eating ‘right’ is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy/stable thinking pattern. When you give your brain just the right nutrients it needs to work with, the way you feel tends to bounce back a lot better. You don’t fall into one mood after another, which is what can happen when you eat lots of junk and forget to include a few veggies here and there! 

Of course, snack foods can make us feel good – chocolate most specifically. But when it comes to maintaining long-term emotional wellbeing, you can’t subsist off of sweets alone. You need to have a substantial diet, a packed plate that fills you up, and only then can you top it off with a yummy dessert! 

physical health

Being Immune Safe Promotes Positivity 

If you’re able to fight off colds and other illnesses, you’re going to feel a lot stronger in both your mind and body. And that’s something you should never underestimate. Being able to get vaccinations done, for example, is a great way to exercise your own control over your health and take back just a bit of power from the outside world. 

So if you’re eligible for it, be sure to get free vaccines done whenever the time calls for it. But even if you’re not, you can still book an appointment at places like CBD medical and pay a small fee to protect yourself. After all, giving your body exactly what it needs to fight off bugs is one of the best ways to put your mind at rest, especially when the seasons change and everyone around you is getting sick. 

Getting Enough Sleep Feeds Mental Health Stability

And finally, if you’re getting enough sleep, you’re going to reinforce everything we’ve said above. Being able to sleep off long and hard days, and wake up feeling refreshed and like you’re ready to face whatever the world throws at you, is one of the best feelings in the world. 

But you’ll only experience it if you’re heading to bed early and getting a good 8 hours! Make sure your sleep hygiene is up to scratch, try to disconnect from the outside world through your phone, and let your mind and body let go of all the day’s little mistakes, moods, and embarrassments. 

Your mental health needs a little physical stability. Keep these points in mind the next time you feel down. 

physical health
Mental Health, Tools for managing anxiety

Why It Is Important to Open Up and Talk About Mental Health 

, 8 Comments
open up
Image credit

Talking about mental health not only will help you with your own mental health struggles, but it also shows other people they are not alone. It can be extremely isolating when you are struggling with your mental health, especially with a stigma attached to them. According to Mind, 1 in 4 people will struggle with their mental health. There has never been a more important time to open up about mental health and have more conversations within your community. 

To get started, it is important to learn more about mental health. This awareness will help you understand your own struggles better, and how to have relevant conversations. Conversations are important to show people they are not alone and provide them with hope. You can research online, speak to a specialist, or you can have a look at participating in adult MHFA courses. You can talk about mental health in your local community, within businesses, or at online conferences. You can also have conversations with friends and family. Every conversation will have a positive impact.

If you are on the fence about having a conversation about mental health, here are some of the reasons why it is important. 

#1 Reduce the stigma

Unfortunately, mental health has a negative stigma attached to it. This is due to a variety of reasons, such as personal beliefs, as well as fear and a general lack of understanding. Mental health has been represented in a variety of ways that is not very accurate, which has misled the societal beliefs around certain conditions, especially for conditions that leave a person to act what is deemed outside the norm. The more people who are vulnerable, and open up about mental health, the more it can be destigmatised and accepted within society. This will make people feel a lot more comfortable.

#2 Help others feel less alone

If you are struggling with a mental health problem, it can be extremely isolating. You may feel the need to isolate yourself, or perhaps you no longer have the energy to be around your friends. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, or exacerbate any existing conditions. When you have more conversations about mental health, you can show them that they are not alone, and support them in building confidence to live their life.

open up

#3 More people would feel comfortable seeking help

One of the hardest things to do when you are struggling with your mental health is to seek support. This can often be because of the condition itself, or the stigma attached to it. When there are more conversations and vulnerability within society, it provides people who feel hopeless and alone, with some hope that change for them is possible. It can also help them understand their conditions better, and learn about what kind of support is available for them. It will be extremely helpful in helping people build confidence to ask for help. 

Having a conversation about mental health may be hard at first as it requires you to be vulnerable. However, if you have confidence in yourself, these conversations can be extremely valuable and help many people in society who are struggling. 

open up
Mental Health, Tools for managing anxiety

Using Rugby To Improve Your Mental Health

, 2 Comments
rugby
Unsplash – CC0 Licence

In the past, public health officials estimated that around one in four people in this country would develop a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. Today, though, that figure is likely closer to one in three, or one in two. 

Mental health has become a central pillar of the culture. It is so widespread and pervasive that every level of society discusses it, from schools to companies to central government. 

Driving the current crisis is a change in our consciousness, a result of profound alterations in how we live our daily lives. We’re more connected and wealthier than ever. And yet, mental health continues to be an issue. 

Because of this, many people are looking for out-of-the-box solutions to mental health issues. And one idea is to get more people into rugby, a sport that used to be the preserve of public schools, grammar schools, and midland towns. 

rugby

Rugby For Mood

Rugby has the potential to dramatically improve a person’s mood, just because it gets them moving more. However, that’s not exactly breaking news. Virtually any form of physical activity has the potential to dramatically change how you feel, at least temporarily. 

The real benefits of rugby appear to be the team and cultural aspects. Rugby isn’t like other sports. Despite the pitch itself being a battlefield, it attracts a refined type of person. People involved in the sport regularly create great communities which then lift up everyone else around them. 

For many, rugby is a route through tough times. Even if there is chaos elsewhere in their lives, the sport is an anchor point, with matches helping to add structure to the week. 

rugby
Unsplash – CC0 License

It’s also a valuable non-work activity. It reminds people that there is more to do in life other than earn a dime. 

These days, you can get an NRL jersey designed online. This way, you can almost make it a part of your identity. People are creating their own kits, and kits for their teams, so that they feel more like a community. New services are bringing people together like never before. 

Rugby Clubs

Players spend around 80 minutes on the pitching, battling it out with each other. But that’s not really where the healing gets done. Instead, it occurs in the clubhouse after the match and during the meal. Everyone, no matter what team they are on, sits down together and has great conversations. There’s also a shared sense of purpose. The team has to work together to get to the top of the league, and then the next one, and so on. 

Even if readers of this blog aren’t particularly interested in playing rugby, many of us know men with mental health issues who would be. Rather than talk about mental health problems, it might be helpful for some people to just live differently and overcome them that way. That’s what rugby is essentially offering. It’s a chance for husbands or boyfriends to address their mental health issues in a non-judgemental and friendly context. 

rugby
Lifestyle, Parenting tips, self-care, Tools for managing anxiety

Board Games I Loved Playing As a Child

, 8 Comments

Does anyone remember the iconic board games you used to play as a child? They even made those travel-size ones so your parents could entertain you on the aeroplane. Maybe as an adult, you have a life-sized chess set ( I really want one of those regal-looking chess tables, except I don’t know how to play!). Someone, please tell me in the comments, that they have battleships. Or operation? 

In this post, I am going to delve into why we loved playing these games so much as children. And also why we remember them so fondly. 

playing as a child

The benefits of playing board games 

Teaches you patience

For anyone who ever participated in a family game of monopoly, you will appreciate the level of patience required. This game can cause ongoing family disputes. Let me know in the comments below whether this game has ever caused you a family rift.

Playing a game of this nature requires small moves in order to lead to a bigger goal. Like goal setting as an adult. With the end result meeting your goal. Bring the winner, or make progress. Depending on how you look at life. Or how competitive you are.

You experience winning and losing 

We are in the process of teaching my little one, life isn’t always about winning. It’s a hard lesson to learn, even for an adult. 

Playing board games will teach her about being both the winner and the loser. Hopefully how adults process these emotions, and how to act accordingly when each one of these eventualities happens. 

Teaching a person that it isn’t always about winning, but it is about making progress and participating, is one of the best lessons to learn.

They help you meet new people

In recent years, the rise of board game cafes and other social spaces offering board games makes me happy. Hopefully, holiday lets might bring them back soon, now we are in a somewhat post-pandemic phase. I used to love checking into our holiday cottage and searching for the board games cupboard. 

Does anyone remember the World Of Warcraft centres? You only have to take a look at Twitch or YouTube to realise the gaming industry is huge. However, I am still a fan of the old iconic games, and whenever we show my little one them, she is too.

Download my new workbook – a freebie designed to organise your busy life

Sign up

Playing board games enhances creativity and self-confidence

I am a huge fan of any activity which increases creativity and self-confidence. Board games can be particularly beneficial for quiet individuals and connecting with young children, as a way to focus their minds and allow conversation. As an introvert myself, I love being part of something but also have a chance to sit back and take in what all the other players are doing.

Board games increase brain function

It is well known that engaging in play assists in practising essential cognitive skills, such as problem-solving, decision making, and higher-level strategic thinking. These are all measures my little one’s nursery and the school put in place for her to attain. And also essential skills we want to equip her with, as parents.

Encourages laughter

The twists and turns in any board game, or forgetting to take your turn in monopoly, can create laughter throughout the participants. And we all love an activity which creates laughter. 

You can play board games anywhere at any time

There are no restrictions on your time when playing board games. You can practice by yourself, and lose yourself in learning how to master the game. Or you can spend hours trying to beat your opponents. I personally love any activity which allows you to lose time and immerse yourself in the experience. The world can be a scary place and escaping into a game can help your mental well-being.

In the world of tech, it’s also easy to play on your computer or phone. Maybe bring back some of those fond memories, play on a tablet with your child or partner and reap the benefits listed above. 

Board games promote family time

Family time is something I am a huge advocate of. I’ve recently changed my circumstances to enable more time with my little one. And as a family, we try and do a few creative activities each day. Even when we have tablet time, we try to make this as interactive as possible and purposefully pick programmes and apps which allow for learning and development. 

Help children understand how adults think 

Toddlers love to mimic the world around them and it’s how they learn. What better lesson than sitting down and witnessing the critical, analytical thinking involved in a board game? It’s a valuable lesson we must teach our children. 

My fond memories from childhood

I still remember the joy and anticipation I felt each time I played operation at my grandma’s house. Such a simple game brought hours of fun. It allowed my grandma to join in, but probably also sit comfortably (something anyone caring for children needs to be able to do – as a must. As a parent, I realise that now).

Battleships was another one of my favourite games and I would play with my dad and my grandad. When remembering these moments, they are etched in my mind so vividly. And I remember the pure joy attached to the moment.  

Final thoughts 

What are your fond memories from childhood?

Tell me your favourite board game. And whether you play these online or with the physical item? Do you love to do both?

I would love to hear from you in the comments below. 

playing as a child
Gifting, self-care, Tools for managing anxiety, wellness

You must check out this self-heating eye mask for relaxation

, 18 Comments

PR samples / AFF

Why I’m impressed by sensory retreats self-warming eye mask 

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for you.

Okay, I’ve never come across a product like this before and therefore I wasn’t sure what to expect. 

I was excited to be gifted a box of two eye masks to try. Simply because I’m a tired mama and I care immensely about my own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. No matter what your situation in life, we all need a little self-care. Even if you struggle to find time, it’s important to make time. Recommended for 25 minutes, these masks fit perfectly with short snippets of relaxation.

Each week I do have one child-free day, thanks to my parents. It’s usually filled with cleaning, catching up on my never-ending to-do list. Or food shopping. However, on this occasion, I relished the opportunity to make time for self-care and review this product. Thank you for providing me with some much-needed relaxation sensory retreats. 

If you would like some relaxation – keep reading…

relaxation

So what did I think?

Opening the box felt special. As you can see from the packaging, this would make a perfect self-care gift for someone special in your life. I couldn’t wait to try it and indulge in relaxation.

If you’re struggling with what to buy for mother’s Day, this could be the perfect solution. 

The fragrance 

The masks I received had a faint rose smell. It was lovely, but not at all overpowering. Every now and then you got a whiff of it and felt more relaxed. 

The mask itself 

In the past, I’ve only ever used cooling eye masks. Therefore I was a bit apprehensive about the effect heat would have and also how these masks would self-heat. 

The material is so light and breathable and the heat starts gradually, to a relaxing level. Think of an all-day heat pad on your back, but much more relaxing and fragrant.

relaxation

The experience 

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I love setting the mood. Following my mental breakdown, it’s important for me to have daily touches, like candles and diffusers. It really does lift my mood and make me feel better. Especially if I have a bad day. 

When trying the masks, I lit candles, put on some yoga music on Spotify. And took the opportunity to do absolutely nothing. With a toddler running around the house, it’s rare to get these moments. And it was absolutely lush. 

Discount code

Sensory Retreats have kindly provided me with a discount code for purchase.

Just use code UTITXAF8EO at the checkout.

You can visit Sensory Retreats to make your purchase.

Final thoughts 

Let me know if you’ve come across these products before?

Are you going to purchase some or treat a special lady in your life, for mother’s Day?

I would love to hear from you in the comments. 


signature relaxation

BEFORE YOU GO

Sign up for my monthly newsletter, to gain access to exclusive offers & updates.

Sign up for my freebie library. Each week there will be a new freebie added to help organise your life and take away some stress!

Enter the giveaway to win an amazing self-care gift

Pin this post for later

relaxation
relaxation
Tools for managing anxiety

5 reasons playing online games is part of my self-care routine

, 10 Comments

This is a collaborative post. However, all thoughts are my own

I dont know about you but I love playing online games on my phone. I’ve just renewed my phone contract and I am so happy to finally have a phone which is useful for blogging and has adequate storage. It just makes playing games all the more fun.

Maybe you’re looking for something to play during the holidays, in those quiet Christmas moments. Something to focus on, a challenge to accomplish. You might want to escape the family for a while or zone your mind out amidst the holiday madness.

Well, look no further. Here is a list of five extra benefits you may be getting whilst playing online games on your phone.

Playing online games helps me to switch off mum mode and learn to focus on just one task. You don’t move on until this task is completed. It trains me to form habits other than trying to constantly multitask.

playing online games

Problem-solving

As a problem solver, I can easily get bogged down in a heavy, stressful task and want to solve it immediately. This can lead to unhealthy levels of anxiety. Because essentially you are not being productive when you are in this mindset. To manage the danger of me crossing over into problem-solving chaos, I need a simple task to flex my problem-solving muscles.

Playing online games is a perfect solution to this. I can spend as much time as I want playing. The task usually ends quite quickly and I can then choose to either put the phone down and play later or carry on. I get to satisfy my need for problem-solving but in a healthy way.

Sign up for my monthly newsletter below

Subscribe to receive my monthly newsletter

​

    We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

    Built with ConvertKit

    Concentration on one task

    I am guilty of trying to do several tasks at once. As a mum, you learn these habits. Great for when you are alone with a baby in a shop, not so great when I want to consciously sit down and focus on one blogging task at a time.

    Playing online games helps me to switch off mum mode and learn to focus on just one task. You don’t move on until this task is completed. It trains me to form habits other than trying to constantly multitask.

    Sense of achievement

    Who doesn’t love the feeling of achievement?

    I will admit I am competitive. But this trait is also what drives me to work hard to achieve my dreams. The topic of this blog is conquering anxiety. I wake up each day and work hard to keep my mind positive and work towards my goals.

    This being the case, it’s great for me to nurture these traits and practice feeling good because I have achieved something.

    playing online games

    Stress relief

    I started playing solitaire.org on my phone when I was getting the little one to sleep and she was watching her tablet. It’s a great way for me to wind down. My mind races and I honestly spend the late evenings mulling over all the things I need to do but feel like I don’t have time to.

    To keep my anxiety in check, I must have something to focus on which completely takes me away and focuses my mind on a simple task. The danger I’ve run into in the past is gaming websites with advertisements, hooking you into paying money, or the feeling of wanting more. This tips the balance into not being great for my anxiety levels and can be dangerous, as I have an addictive personality. This website doesn’t have advertisements, which is perfect for me.

    I was rusty at playing solitaire, but it brought back wonderful memories of playing it with my grandma. What amazing things we could do back in the day with just a deck of cards. You can view my progress below. And as you can see, I eventually completed the game.

    playing online games

    Want access to my freebie library? Click the button below

    I want some freebies

    Express yourself

    If you’re looking for some unique games to get your brain working, check out the other games on the site.

    I particularly loved playing Mahjong Solitaire, because it combined the card game and matching pairs. Almost easier, but rewarding. The panda game was also cute and I liked the block game because you can spin the tower to match two of the same blocks.

    playing online games

    Final thoughts

    Completing my online gaming journey and writing this post, made me realise just how important gaming is in our household.

    Both my hubby and I grew up playing games. I remember our first computer was an Atari and it didn’t do much. We now have several games consoles, because we are both nostalgic about the games we played when we were younger. I remember one of our dates was at a media museum and they have a floor where you can play retro games. 

    My little one has a lot of game-related apparel. We are slowly teaching her what all this means. Before I sat down to write this post, my hubby was relaxing by playing a game on his phone, after our little one had caused chaos in the house for a few hours with post-Christmas toys. I think I now must accept we are a ‘gaming family’.

    Do you play online games and will you be giving these a try? Let me know in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you.

    signature playing online games
    Tools for managing anxiety

    Affirmation cards from Mål paper to help inspire and motivate

    , 6 Comments

    #GIFTED #AFF

    Mål Paper

    If you are following my blog, you will know I am all about self-care and I am beginning to put tools in place to manage my anxiety moving forward. I need some help to inspire and motivate, and I am sure you do too.

    A technique I have already started using is affirmations. I’ve always had quotes on my walls and in my daily planner to motivate me, but I now intend to go further than this and say these affirmations to myself, out loud, to literally change my way of thinking and become more positive. I’ve spent too long living in the negative.

    You can imagine I was over the moon when Mål Paper asked me to review their affirmation cards. Please check them out.

    help inspire and motivate

    PLEASE NOTE – this is a review of the product and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

    Details about the brand

    Mål Paper also takes inspiration from the Scandinavian minimalist and clutter-free way of living. As a result, we create simplistic and effective productivity tools that help you to focus on your wellness, fulfilment and potential.

    Our collection of products has been designed and produced to foster positive daily habits – with the end result of a happier, calmer and more productive way of living.

    You’ve seen my recent post, which includes some gratitude quotes and positive affirmations. 

    What a perfect time for me to be gifted these amazing affirmation cards. I was so excited when they arrived and I feel grateful to have another tool to combat my anxiety.

    Why I am changing the way I live my life

    I have a child now and the main motivation is setting a good example and being a supportive participant in my family. When suffering from severe anxiety in the past, I’ve pushed everyone away, including my long-suffering hubby. 

    How can I possibly be on this journey of discovery and not see it through until the end? My eyes have been opened and I know what the problems were in the past. That said, I also know a cognitive behavioural change doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes hard work. 

    Because I’m predispositioned to suffering from anxiety issues, due to my personality traits, I also have to work harder than most other people to maintain a good standard of mental health. 

    Why it’s vital I finally put tools in place to manage my mental health

    I personally believe wanting to change your life isn’t enough. The research says we must rewire our brains, create new habits, and really put in some hard work in order to change for good.

    This will take daily work, probably for the rest of my life. Therefore it’s time to put tools in place so it doesn’t feel like hard work. On tough days it’s also important for me to have a solid reminder about why I actively changed my life for the better. 

    Through my blog, I also want to help inspire and motivate other people. I am doing this by discussing my honest reality of living with a mental illness and my journey to recovery.

    Some cards which resonate with me

    We are all at different stages in our life journey and I am starting to learn everyone you meet is unique. We are shaped by our personality, past experiences and therefore different techniques will be needed based on the person you are.

    I was excited to receive and open the pack of cards and I also had fun taking photos (maybe my photography skills will improve the more I do it!).

    These are some of the cards I was drawn to initially…

    1.

    help inspire and motivate

    What an amazing quote. It resonates with me because I am trying to carve out the life I’ve always wanted. A balance between work and family time. Being my own boss would be the ultimate dream. I am doing this by creating new, healthy routines. Therefore this is one card I will use the most.

    2.

    help inspire and motivate

    I was drawn to this card because I am in the process of healing. Maybe I always will be. I intend to use the power of my mind to my advantage, instead of fighting against it. These are words I can definitely relate to.

    Final thoughts

    I intend to use this pack of cards daily. I love that they are compact and handy to carry around or dot around the house. They will allow me to visualise positivity, as well as say it out loud. What a great prompt.

    You can purchase your deck of cards here.

    signature

    Disclaimer - Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy