We all have them – friends who smile through whatever life throws their way. They never seem to get down or miserable. Or if they do they quickly bounce back. For that they have their genetics to thank, right? Not quite.
According to the scientists it’s not just about how you were born, nor what happens to you in life. How happy you are is also in a large part dictated by what you do. Your lifestyle – especially what you eat, how much you sleep and how you spend your time – have more of an impact than you might think.
First stop is your plate because a healthy, well balanced diet is crucial for emotional wellbeing.
‘Research shows that a healthy diet can have a big impact on mood,’ explains Emer O’Neill, chief executive of the charity Depression Alliance. Conversely, junk food and alcohol can increase levels of anxiety and depression.
Eat a wide variety of plant-based foods (fruit and veg, beans, pulses, wholegrains). And make sure you include some dairy and meat (or alternatives) and fish (oily once a week).
A lack of sleep magnifies negative feelings. Try to establish a good routine. Keep regular hours – going to bed and getting up at the same time – keep your bedroom cool and your bed comfortable, and establish a wind-down routine an hour before lights out. Relax with muted lighting, a warm bath, hot drink and book, and ban screens – their ‘blue’ light interferes with the production of sleep hormone melatonin.
Magic magnesium
This story is from the September 29, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 29, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Here to help
LET COUNSELLOR KEREN LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD
Clematis FOREVER
These adorable climbers offer months of colour
Quick cushion
Make sewing simple with this speedy appliqué project
Ahidden HEAVEN
Discover a new side to Cornwall on a visit to the quiet south coast peninsula of Roseland
Bright IDEAS
From floor lamps to ceiling pendants, we've found the best solutions to lighten every corner
Heard of EARTH DAY?
We find out how this annual event is trying to help our planet
BETTER SLEEP...in a week!
Waking in the night or trouble nodding off? Here's how to improve your slumber in just seven days
National treasures
The UK is getting a new national park, which will be chosen soon from a number of options. Here are some of the gems we have already
'My dream role would be winning the lottery!'
Actor Larry Lamb on his lucky career, reality show stints and what he does to stay healthy