With lockdown lethargy creeping in, now’s the time to get more creative with mindful movement, hone our self-awareness and show empathy towards others

LIGHT THE WAY WITH KINDNESS

One thing I know for sure is that, in dark times, compassion is our superpower. You may have heard this before, but let me elaborate… A style of mindfulness meditation called loving kindness has been scientifically proven to reduce our stress response. In fact, in just eight weeks, those who practise loving kindness meditation experience less distress than those who don’t; it has the power to increase positive emotions and lead to stronger relationships over time.

Let’s lift ourselves up with loving kindness and find a better way to navigate our way through adversity.

Psychologies Wellness Director, mindfulness expert and yoga teacher

Iris skincare Clarifying face mask, £18.99, upcirclebeauty.com

STAR OF THE GLOW

In a world that feels disrupted, our skin can mirror the imbalances we experience. The iris plant is highly adaptable, growing in conditions that are extremely dry or wet, which is why it’s been chosen as a star natural ingredient in Weleda’s Iris Moisture Balancing range. It helps restore the skin’s moisture levels, promoting radiance and resilience.

Cultivate compassion

Lately, I have been

repeating my favourite Sanskrit yoga mantra, ‘Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu’, which means: ‘May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words and actions of my life contribute in some way to happiness and freedom for all.’ Allow the words to settle into your awareness and check in with how they make you feel in body, mind and heart. This mantra is a great tool for harnessing kindness.

"Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realise that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge"
ECKHART TOLLE

• The Joy Journal For Magical Everyday Play by Laura Brand (Pan MacMillan, £12.99)

Abracadabra!

I love the idea of creating with no goal other than to have fun. Whether you have kids or not, The Joy Journal is a fantastic way to bring more play into your everyday. From flower soup to moon sand, this book is guaranteed to deliver some magic to your week.