The COVID pandemic has forced us to be aware of our physical health. For some of us it has also had had a major impact on our mental health. One of the major challenges has been dealing with events outside our control. Some people thrive in a crisis by looking for opportunities on how best to serve others. We have all seen and learnt about the courageous character of NHS staff and key workers at large. For me, falling back to the key fundamentals of the MY NEW SELF programme has been invaluable. I suffered from COVID illness during the second wave of the pandemic. I believe that my active participation in meditation (breathing techniques and visualisation), yoga (mind-body connection), and nutrition (plant-based and whole foods) to boost immune, brain and heart health, had a major impact on my recovery. Working full-time within the NHS with both clinical and non-clinical responsibilities and raising 3 beautiful children brings about many challenges. I try my best to enjoy 6-7 hours of good quality, uninterrupted sleep. I combat exhaustion by walking and spending time in nature and aim to fill my life with purpose and fulfilment.
The Link Between Cardiovascular Disease and Mental Health
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mental illness are two of the leading causes of poor health and death globally. This article looks at