Working in the environmental space it's important to care for your mental health. Being aware of the many environmental issues happening across the world can feel pretty heavy at times. In fact, a recent University of Bath survey found that 75% of respondents think "the future is frightening" and 45% said that climate anxiety is affecting their daily lives.
This is why we should all remember to take time to show ourselves some self care. But many of the products that are sold to us in the name of self care aren't great for the planet. They're usually packed in plastic or contain nasty ingredients. So how can we show ourselves self care sustainably?
Here's our top tips:
Spend time in nature - getting outside into nature has been scientifically proven to boost your mood! So take 5 minutes today to get outside and breathe in some fresh air. This is a free and easy way to recharge and refresh your mind
Practice gratitude - being grateful for the simple things in life can be a great practice to start trying. By noticing the little (and big) things you have to be grateful for, you're consciously choosing not to dwell on the negatives
Listen to music or a podcast - disconnect from the busyness of life by closing your eyes and taking some time to be still with a podcast or some music. Just using one of your senses will help quiet you brain and allow you to relax
Try a new recipe - get away from your screens for the evening and try a new recipe! The satisfaction that comes from cooking a meal from scratch is the best feeling
For the month of August, myself (@all.things.greenn) and Lydia (@sustainabilitybitch) are running a Sustainable Self Care challenge where we'll be sharing a different eco-friendly self care tip every week for you to get involved in. Make sure you're following us both on Instagram so you don't miss out!
Week One: Retail Therapy
I know I'm guilty of doing some online shopping when I'm in a low mood. As gratifying as this can feel in the moment, it doesn't help change your mood and only leaves you feeling disappointed in yourself when you check your bank balance. So instead of heading to your favourite shopping app whenever you feel down, why not try and recreate that feeling of a new purchase with what you already own?
For many of us, retail therapy is associated with clothes, but I'm sure your wardrobe is already bursting with endless outfits! Take an afternoon or a weekend to pull out some items that you hardly every wear and try and incorporate them into different outfits and styles. Recreate that feeling of having new clothes by experimenting with what you already own and finding new ways to wear you clothes!
Week Two: Face Mask
My favourite thing to do after a long week is run a bath and put on a face mask. The issue with face masks is many of them are packaged in un-recyclable packaging and are full of extra nasty ingredients. Skip the shop bought packaged face masks, and instead make you own - or at least buy a DIY face mask kit!
One of my favourite sustainable skincare businesses is Wild Dew Skincare who sell the most amazing facemasks for you to make up at home. I use their Calming Pink Clay face mask which I mix with water to make a quick and simple face mask. Watch the video to see just how easy it is!
Week Three: Candl
Did you know many of our favourite candles are made using toxic ingredients that pollute the air when we burn them?! Lighting a scented candle is a perfect way to relax, whether you're in the bath or listening to some music, but choosing the right candle is important. Which is why this week Lydia will be sharing tips of finding an eco-friendly candle that is ethically and sustainably made!
Week Four: Reading
Who doesn't love to curl up with a good book after a long day? Reading is one of my favourite things to do before bed, it's a great way to unwind and relax before drifting off to a good nights sleep. The perfect self care activity!
So for our final week of the challenge Lydia will be sharing more about how to make your reading time even more sustainable. From where to buy your books (preferably second hand!) to her favourite books to learn about sustainability.
As you go through the challenge please tag us on Instagram so we can follow along with your progress! You can find us at @all.things.greenn and @sustainabilitybitch 💚