7 Ways to Maximise Your Mental Wellbeing When Stressed

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Stress and energy depletion are some of the biggest afflictions plaguing today’s 24/7 society, which is partly why successful model and AfN-accredited nutritionist, Sarah Ann Macklin, founded the Be Well Collective. Her wellbeing initiative works to support models throughout the stressful times of Fashion Week (and beyond), but its message of self-care and nutritional awareness applies to most of us living our breakneck lifestyles today.

At the launch of her Fashion Fix breakfast at W London, (an immunity-boosting, stress-reducing, protein-rich menu Macklin’s curated for all visitors – not just the fash pack), she hosted a panel on ways to maximise mental wellbeing.

Alongside experts Dr Nick Knight, a London-based GP; Howard Napper, TEDx speaker of ‘The Art of Lifestyle Medicine’; and Jillian Lavender, founder of the London Meditation Centre, Macklin discussed the importance of nutrition, sleep, self-care and understanding anxiety during times of stress. Here are some stress management lessons we learnt from the event that will resonate with many.

This article first appeared in Harper's BAZAAR UK

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3. Exercise, but not too much (or too late)

Like nutrition, exercise can significantly impact mental health and plays a part in how you manage stress. However, if you already have a healthy regime, don’t try and match your normal volume of exercise during busy and stressful periods. Dr Knight explains, “you’ll be exhausted more than normal and this is the time for maintenance”. Over-training can compromise your immune system, so use it as a means to de-stress, nothing more. Also, when it comes to improving your sleep, avoid exercising before bed – “the ideal time to stop exercise is five hours before”, advises Knight.

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