10 minute Wellness

Sometimes life can be very hectic and busy, and we see on social media more new health and wellness things that we think we should try to feel better. It can make people feel they are not doing enough and they are already busy so the thought of adding anything else seems too much.

It’s great there is such a variety of exercises and therapies around-there really is something for everyone but sometimes if we are short of time we can't always get to the new class we want to try or in a financial position for a 1:1 treatment at that moment.

Some clients I see are recovering from illness or living with a long term health condition, and 45minute-1 hour sessions are just too much for them, either physically or mentally.

There are many free or low cost things you can do that can really help. 10 minutes over 6 days is an hour, and one hour is better than nothing.

Here are 7 ideas- one for every day of the week to get you started.

1. Take a 10 minute walk around your neighbourhood after lunch to get some fresh air, daylight and some gentle movement.

2. If you have internet access do a 10 minute workout. On YouTube there is everything from HIIT to Zumba and Tai Chi.

3. Place your hips near to a wall and bring your legs up so your heels rest against the wall. Place a cushion under your head if you have one. Legs-up-the-wall, also known as Viparita Karani is great for blood flow, easing tired hot heavy legs and calming for the nervous system.

4. Lay on your sofa or sit in a chair if unavailable and do a 10 minute body scan.Tensing the feet, then the legs,buttocks, arms and hands and then releasing can be very calming and reduce anxiety.

5. Meditate for 10 minutes by just relaxing the shoulders and jaw, softening the eyes or closing them if you feel comfortable and just observe the flow of your breath. When thoughts appear, notice them without judgement or the need to engage with them and gently focus your mind back on your breath.

6. Read a book or listen to an audiobook for 10 minutes. You can join a local library for free or download a library app such as Borrowbox where you can borrow titles for free on your device.

7. Write a gratitude journal. When things are tough, it is easy to get into a negative mindset. Before you go to bed, recall all the good things about your day. It could be a stranger said hello and smiled, or you had a delicious cup of coffee(this is often on my list!), the sun was shining today, you’re wearing your favourite jumper. This helps us rewire the brain to see the positives in life.

I hope these ideas are useful, and send me a DM on Instagram or the contact form on my website if you have anything you do that makes you feel good in 10 minutes.

Wishing you a week full of health and happiness, Claire