The A – Z Of Wellbeing – L

This month The A – Z of Wellbeing is focusing on the letter L.

L

Laughter – Who doesn’t love to laugh? There is nothing better than laughing so much you cry. When was the last time you did that? Who or what makes you laugh? When we laugh it releases endorphins into our blood, we feel great and it lifts our mood. Have a look online if you feel you want to laugh, there are so many funny videos available to watch. Why not go and see your favourite comedian and spend a few hours laughing your socks off. Try to spend more time with your friends who make you laugh. You want to feel great, and a good laughter session can help to reduce tension and stress.

Lavender oil – Where would we be without this wondrous essential oil. It has been used for thousands of years. It can help with so many ailments such as burns, cuts, insect bites, aching muscles, difficulties sleeping, stress and anxiety. You cannot go wrong having pure lavender essential oil in your house. If you have only one thing in your first aid kit make sure it is this.

Learning – We learn from a baby right up to the day we die. There is always something new to know and discoveries to be made. You may learn by doing, by going on a course and listening or through experience. When things don’t go our way in life, use this as a learning opportunity. Learning can be fun as well as challenging. You are never to old to learn, so why not choose something today.

Let go – We can all be guilty of holding onto things for too long. Perhaps a favourite dress is old and worn or doesn’t fit you or you are holding a grudge because someone hurt you. Letting go is really tough. But in order to move forward, we need to let go of the things which are holding us back from making progress. Think about what you are holding on to. Is it helping you or hindering you? If you are unable to do something because of what you are clinging to or hoping for, then perhaps you need to start taking steps to letting go. Why not write a letter (but don’t send it) to the person who has aggrieved you for example your relationship broke up and you cling to the hope your ex partner will take you back. You need to grieve for this relationship. Why not explain in this letter how you feel and why you are writing it. Just the act of getting your feelings down on paper may be enough to help you kick start letting go.

Life – It is precious and is over to fast. We are on this planet for such a short time. So much has happened before we got here and the best thing you can do is to make the most out of your life and live it as you want. Don’t let others dictate your life or spend too long pleasing everyone. Do what you want and live life your way. The only thing you want to regret on your death bed is not having that extra slice of cake for dessert!

Listen – Take time and listen to others. Listen to what they are saying, I mean really listen. A friend may be chatting to you about their problems and you interject. However, an answer or advice is not always required. Just being there and letting them talk and lending your ear is perhaps all that is needed. Listen to yourself too. What are you saying? Are you being kind to you? What we say to ourselves on a daily basis can have an impact on us. For example if you are always berating yourself or saying unkind things, stop and say something kind instead. Do this each time you notice. Treat yourself as if you would a friend. Be kind.

Look after you – Always try to plan some time in for you. It is important that you do this. If you spend all your time working or running around after others and feel exhausted, then take a breath and book a day solely for the purpose of you. Do all the things you love and although it may be difficult, don’t feel guilty for spending some much needed time with yourself or with friends. You need time to rest, relax and have fun.

Love – Where would we be without love? Whether you are with someone or not, you will know what love is. You can love your pets as much as any partner, or you love your friends and family. Love isn’t just about being with someone. It is about ensuring you open your heart and let love in and give love out. Don’t forget to love yourself either. You are unique, awesome and deserve love in all aspects of your life.

Thanks for reading.

Take care, have a great week and look after you.

Love Emma xx