Super Duper Powers

The power of movement
If you are an exercise avoider you will always be able to find something more enjoyable to do than get active. But a mere 20 minutes of activity has been shown to improve our mood for up to 12 hours, so get moving and endorphinate.

The power of gratitude
Many studies have shown the link between being grateful, and elevated levels of positive feelings. Gratitude has been shown to decrease depression, increase resilience, improve sleep, decrease the risk of heart disease, and improve relationships. Taking time to express gratitude helps us slow down and focus on the present, and the positives.

The power of mindfulness and meditation
Psychological research from Harvard shows our minds wander up to 47% of the time. Cultivating a mindful approach to the day-to-day routine helps us focus and be present. Regular practise of meditation has been shown to improve anxiety, depression, and quality of life, as well as maintain a healthy mind and increase wellbeing.

The power of forgiveness
The Stanford Forgiveness project has demonstrated that forgiveness reduces stress, anger, and depression, and helps with feelings of optimism. It also supports our immune system, and reduces the risk of heart disease and chronic pain.

The power of laughter
Creating ways to find laughter is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal. Using laughter exercises and techniques creates bonds, releases endorphins and generally fosters feelings of contentment.

The power of connection
Connecting with those we care about can have a buffering effect on stress. Supportive, positive relationships work both ways, and you can never underestimate the power of a phone call or a friendly chat.

The power of sleep
Try to establish a winding down routine; you have a morning one, so invest in a bedtime one, too. Switch devices off at least an hour before bed, avoid caffeine after 2pm, keep your bedroom cool, and have a notebook by your bed to write down any worries, ideas, or things to do, that pop into your mind.

The power of kindness
This applies to yourself and those around you. In April of 2020, the Mental Health Foundation worked with YouGov to conduct an online survey of more than 4,200 UK adults aged 18 and over. It revealed that 63% of UK adults agree that when other people are kind it has a positive impact on their mental health, and the same proportion agree that being kind to others has a positive impact on their mental health. It’s a win-win.

So now you have been reminded of your super duper powers which ones will YOU be using today?