As we look ahead to the coming year, it can feel daunting thinking about strict resolutions especially when they could be cancelled for reasons out of your control. So this year why not look into some well needed wellbeing habits you could take up. While there is still uncertainty and enduring fear regarding the COVID variants looking after your mental and physical health is vital. Learning to take time for yourself and prioritise your mental health is the perfect goal to set. In this month’s blog we’re looking at the new trends of 2022 to help you achieve peace and relaxation in the year ahead. 

1. Mindful, Plant-Based Eating

According to The Guardian more than a third of Britons are on board with becoming vegan, a staggering amount compared to previous years. It seems the global food crisis is starting to weigh heavy on people’s minds and the numerous health benefits are just the cherry on top. With Veganuary approaching why not see if you can make the most of the monthly challenge, Feganuary (February + Vegan) might not be so catchy but continuing the health kick is a sure to keep you fit and healthy. 

Remember to consult a doctor if you are worried about how it might affect your personal health and ensure you are eating a varied diet when taking on a different way of eating. 

2. Put sleep first in 2022

Most households in the UK have a device that can track your sleep, from an Apple Watch to a smart ring. Finding out how well and when you sleep can be great indicators for improving your day to day life. ‘Sleep Hygiene’ is the new phrase, it takes into consideration your bedtime habits, the environment of your bedroom and your exposure to technology before you go to sleep.

3.  Leading an eco-friendly life

According to Google, searches for ‘climate anxiety’ and ‘eco anxiety’ have both risen by 200%. It’s fair to say, as a society we’re worried about the future of our planet. In order to soothe these worries it can be helpful to educate yourself on the issues that matter most to you. 

Think about the ways in which you can adapt your lifestyle to be more eco friendly. Shop second hand, create your own compost heap in your garden, limit your amount of single use plastic. Be aware of your thoughts and feelings as you make these small changes as the positive actions can have a positive effect on your wellbeing, while helping the planet.

4. Walk this way

No, there’s no new way of walking, one foot in front of the other as you’ve always done will do. However, the primal activity is taking the world by storm. Walking is one of the healthiest things to do for the human body but over the past few years it’s had a makeover. After months of being stuck inside, the once mundane ‘walk’ has become a liberating form of exercise. Taking a leisurely walk with no aim or focus is perfect for thinking about your personal goals for the week or month. Taking time away from the house and work desk can offer a multitude of health and mental benefits. 

And the steps are surprisingly easy, a great motive to start with is: Going for a 20 minute walk and listing ten things you’re grateful for. See where it takes you. 

5. Starting a mood diary

Have you ever thought about starting a mood diary? Similar to general diaries, a mood diary is focused on your emotions and will help you improve your mental health. In simple terms, it’s a great way to record how you feel and may help find out why you feel that way.

It allows you to recognise negative thoughts and be proactive in order to help or change those feelings, whether it’s opening up to a loved one, mental professional or friend. Recording your feelings has been shown to reduce your feelings of anxiety and depression, too.

Reflecting on the day can also be a great way of coming to terms with your work ethic, do you work best in the morning or do you get more done at night? Reflection is a key tool used in education but can have numerous benefits outside the classroom. 

6. Gut health

A surprising trend that has had a surge in searches over the past few months is ‘gut health’. It appears many of us have been going about it all wrong or not at all. Gut health is the balance between good and bad bacteria in your gut. When the gut is healthy, it has a good percentage of healthy bacteria and immune cells to fight off harmful bacteria and other various harmful pathogens such as viruses and fungi. Turns out exercise and sleep also play a big role in ensuring good gut health, not just your diet. 

Tackling your health from the inside out can be a great way of getting to know your body and prescribing yourself a personal plan of action that works for you. While trends come and go these trends will hopefully help you and stick around enough for you to see the benefit.