Improving mental health is now the most popular New Year’s resolution for younger people in 2023, according to a poll – with two Warwickshire experts offering their top five tips to improve your personal wellbeing.
With a new year a chance for new beginnings, many may start to be thinking of committing to a New Year’s resolution now 2023 is around the corner.
And while many New Year’s resolutions have traditionally centred on weight loss or personal goals, a new poll has found mental health is now top priority for Generation Z.
The Forbes Health poll of 1,005 adults found 50 per cent of people aged 18 to 25 – and 45% of all adults – have a New Year’s resolution to improve their mental health in 2023.
“It’s not at all surprising to hear that,” said Tara James, Spa Manager at the tranquil Elan Spa, at Mallory Court Hotel and Spa in Leamington.
“A big part of our membership is here for wellness and mental wellbeing, and I think there has been a big shift in its importance over the years.”
Wellness plays a big part in the ethos of Mallory Court Hotel and Spa, on Harbury Lane, with Tara and Simon Haigh – Chef Director at the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette The Dining Room restaurant – offering their top five tips to improve your mental health.
1. Keeping mobile
“Keeping mobile and moving is really important,” said Tara.
“Research has shown that walking on a daily basis can help reduce symptoms associated with mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.
“It improves blood flow and gives you a lift, and whether it’s half an hour on a bike at the spa or half an hour walk on an incline, it’s all about getting those steps in.
“That’s why we’ve even designed a spa garden trail at Mallory to soak up the views of the countryside and take a moment from the everyday stresses. People really love it.”
2. A good night’s sleep
“A bad night’s sleep can leave you feeling a bit grumpy and sap your energy levels, whereas uninterrupted sleep can leave you feeling refreshed and energised,” said Tara.
Simon added: “Foods can play a big part in how you sleep too.
“Nuts like almonds, walnuts and pistachios are good for sleep as they contain essential minerals like magnesium and zinc which are good for sleep and muscle relaxation.
“Fish is also good, particularly fatty fishes like salmon and tuna as they are rich in vitamin D and omega-3 which regulate the sleeping cycle.”
3. Taking time for you
“Sometimes you need to take your mind off things and just focus on you,” said Tara.
“Having time out from your normal day-to-day life helps switch off from the rat race so I’d always encourage doing something for you.
“One of the things we recommend to our spa members is a monthly treatment such as the GAIA Total Holistic which is two hours long and is all about releasing tension and stress and bringing the mind and body into harmonious balance.
“We have an outdoor Vitality Pool with water jets to gently massage and relieve aching muscles, and that’s really important. Your body gets through a lot in a day so it’s good to give back to it!”
4. Healthy foods
Simon said: “A balanced diet is essential to staying well and feeling good about yourself.
“I’ve mentioned before but fish and nuts are my go-to healthy foods as they’re good sources of protein and healthy fats.
“Blueberries are great to boost your immune system because of their antioxidant properties.
“My favourite tip though is probably to eat dark chocolate as its packed with phytonutrients – a type of antioxidant which is meant to be good for your heart.”
5. Talking to others
“Communication is vital,” said Tara.
“We have a big community environment at the spa, we know all of our members, and everybody knows each other.
“When people are around the pool areas, we always encourage them to put their phones down, be in the moment, and have downtime to be with themselves and others.
“Humans are inherently social and just talking to somebody can lift your mood. It’s one of the things I love most about my job as we have so many guests come through the doors.”
