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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4. Maximise the little sleep you get

If you can’t get more sleep, get better sleep. The ‘sleep hormone’ melatonin rises at night but drops with stimulation. This is why you need to avoid caffeine in the evenings (even ‘decaf’ tea, which Macklin says can still contain a high amount of caffeine) and sources of blue light which impact on your circadian rhythm. Set your smartphone to ‘night mode’, and if you’re using a computer in the evenings (not in your bedroom, ideally) download f.lux, free software that warms up your computer display. Your body temperature is also important – too hot and it can slow the release of melatonin, so avoid eating spicy food in the evenings and having hot showers/baths before bed. Instead try a cooler bath or foot soak with flakes of magnesium, a natural muscle relaxant.