MY THOUGHTS ON ANXIETY

My experience with anxiety began a few years ago. Although it was the most challenging experience of my life, it taught me a lot about myself. The techniques I learnt at this time have really improved my well-being and understanding of myself in general. I thought it would advantageous to share them with you, whether you suffer from anxiety or are interested in improving your well-being in general.

A little bit about my experience: I developed anxiety during my A-Levels. At the time, I had no idea what I was experiencing and labelled it ‘severe stress’. I had never experienced these symptoms before and felt so scared. I felt like a completely different person. After a couple of weeks of feeling this way, I spoke to the Head of Sixth Form, which was the best thing I could have done. She helped put things in perspective for me. This is when things started to shift.

Since then, I have suffered anxiety and other mood changes on and off up until this day. However, over time, I have developed an understanding of my body and mind which helps prevent negative feelings and how to manage them if they do arise.

The following tips are things that have come into my life which have really changed things for me and improved my well-being in general. Disclaimer: I am not a Mental Health Professional. Please don’t take these tips as professional advice and contact a professional to treat your own personal mental health.

1. MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness was something that I really didn’t want to practice during my time of anxiety. The last thing I wanted to do was sit down and let my thoughts be. I didn’t want them to be there at all. But now that I have more patience with myself in general, mindfulness is something I try to bring into my daily routine. This could be in the form of yoga, a walk, baking or talking to a friend. It is the art of taking your mind away from something and onto something else. Or it is sitting and allowing your thoughts to just be.

2. BE A ‘NO’ PERSON

I have always been a ‘Yes’ person. I care a lot about other people and what they think of me. In the past, I said yes to things I didn’t want to do and wouldn’t benefit my well-being. I can see now why my anxiety built up so much. Not only was I worried about myself, but other people. Although it seems scary at first, you don’t have to say yes to everything and everyone. Nobody will judge you for saying no if there is good reason: you are not responsible for the people around you. Once you reflect on whether saying Yes is really the right thing to do, you will know what your priorities are.

3. NAME YOUR ANXIETY

At the time my anxiety was at its worse, I felt like a different person. The way I saw things and managed my life wasn’t the same. But the mistake I made was identifying with my anxiety. I thought “this is the person I am now” and this would always be the case. My sister encouraged me to name my anxiety and separate myself from what I was feeling. Although this took time, it reduced the negative thoughts I had about myself. Now I can see that I am more than anxiety. Although it affects the way I feel, it by no means defines who I am.

4. GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE/TRAVEL

Anxiety can take the form of an ‘inner voice’ which can be loud, negative and controlling. If you listen to it, you might believe you are not capable of certain things. But you can prove this voice wrong. By doing what it tells you that you can’t, this can dull the voice down.

One event which truly changed the way I viewed myself and my capabilities was travelling to Australia. I had decided against travelling on my gap year for a number of reasons. However, I planned to travel in the summer after my first year at University. After travelling, I came back with a new sense of freedom and open-mindedness. Perhaps it was Australian culture that had a positive effect on me, but I believe this comes with travelling itself. I came back feeling refreshed, my mind open to what really matters. I truly believe that getting out of your comfort zone opens you up to who you really are and what you can be.

5. SPEAK TO PEOPLE

More people experience anxiety and other mental health difficulties that you may imagine. During my time at Sixth Form, I felt so alone, even though I was surrounded by so many people. When I spoke about my symptoms to my Mum and best friend, I felt like I was mad. Nobody knew what was wrong with me or how to make me feel better. Nevertheless, opening up to people, even if they don’t have experience of anxiety, can take away a lot of worry. If you are an anxiety sufferer, you know how much worries can escalate. I remember worrying about why I was worrying. Talking can reduce this anxiety and put your mind at ease. 

In conclusion, although I’ve faced some tough challenges, I feel like I’m in a much better place now. The journey is never smooth but there are always ways to help see things in a more positive light.

I hope you found this blog post useful. Here are some resources you might find useful:

Books:

‘The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**k’, Sarah Knight

‘Positive Thinking’, Gill Hasson

‘Mindset’, Dr Carol S. Dweck

Thank you for reading,

Emily x

FIVE REASONS TO STUDY AT READING UNIVERSITY

If you know me personally, you’ll know how much I love Reading University. I loved it from the moment I came to visit for the first time. As I am so passionate about the University, I thought it would be helpful (and amusing) to write about the reasons I love studying here. Although I enjoy my course (Psychology and Philosophy), there are many things other than this that make Reading an amazing University. In this post, I will focus on the ways Reading University promotes mental health and sustainability. However, if you would like more information about the University in general, please follow this link: https://www.reading.ac.uk/

Disclaimer: If currently trying to decide which University to go to, please pick one that feels the most suitable for you (and don’t take this post too seriously!)

1. IT IS SO GREEN: The words I most commonly hear when students and visitors talk about the campus is “GREEN”. The campus has a lot of green area. It won a Green Flag Award and has also been voted top campus space in the UK. There is an area called the Wilderness, full of trees and wildlife, and the Harris Gardens, where I recently took part in mindfulness studies. It’s a great place to walk around when you are feeling stressed or anxious.
2. SUSTAINABILITY: At Reading, there is a huge focus on sustainability. Not only are there recycling bins for all kinds of materials, the University promotes sustainability in a variety of ways. The environmental officer is currently promoting a campaign about Palm Oil awareness. Furthermore, there is a Student Union night coming up dedicated to Green Week! Plastic straws have been banned from campus on union nights and one of the cafés on campus is now zero-waste and vegan-friendly.
3. THE PEOPLE ARE LOVELY: This is one of the things I noticed as soon as I arrived. Students who work at Reading are very friendly and enjoy talking about the University. Moreover, the staff are very approachable. From my first year, I have made an effort to get to know the Philosophy department, a unique group of Professors. This has been is a great way to build connections and gain extra academic and personal advice.
4. MENTAL HEALTH: There is also a focus on Mental Health at Reading. The University often runs campaigns to promote positive well-being, such as ‘RUSU SAYS RELAX’. This has involved days where puppies and farm animals have come to campus in order to aid mindfulness and reduce stress levels around exam season. Additionally, there are now relaxation and nap pods in the Student’s Union, so that students can take some time out and relax. ‘Open Mind Reading’ is a society which also holds events to promote positive well-being, including free yoga and sport classes.
5. SOCIETIES: Societies are a great way to meet like-minded people. In first year, I joined so many societies, but attended none by the end of the year. This year, I have made more of an effort to stay involved in groups that interest me.  Vegan and Vegetarian Society is great if you are interested in veganism and want to explore vegan-friendly restaurants. Moreover, Zero Waste Society has recently been formed by a Consumer Behaviour and Marketing student, who recently got in touch with me after reading my blog! I will be Welfare Rep next year and cannot wait to see all that this society achieves.

There many more reasons I would encourage you to visit Reading, however as this is already my longest blog post, I will leave you with five.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about studying here.

Thank you for reading!

Emily x

TOP TEN VEGAN FOODS YOU NEED TO TRY

There has been a dramatic rise in veganism this year. Many people are open to the idea of adopting a more plant-based diet. However, you don’t have to be vegan to try vegan foods. Whether you are a vegan, incorporating more plant-based meals into your life or want to try something new, here are top ten vegan foods you need to try:

1.The Linda McCartney Range: This range of vegetarian/vegan-friendly products are incredible if you are a plant-based eater or want to try some meat- free alternatives. My go-to are the sausages (including chorizo and rosemary and thyme flavours). If you are more of burger person, beef and pulled pork-style burgers are also available.

2. Biscoff Spread. What many people don’t know, is that this spread is vegan. Ideal for toast, on top of vegan biscuits or out of the jar, this is the perfect treat. And it contains no animal products.

3. Vegan biscuits: Eating more plant-based doesn’t mean you have to give up your favourite biscuits. Some vegan alternatives include Oreos, some varieties of Bourbon (check the label!) and party rings. You definitely aren’t missing out.

4. Jus-Rol: Many of the products in this range are vegan. Personally, I love the cinnamon rolls, which you can make at home. Other options include the pastry itself (from which you can make sweet or savoury pies), and the pain au chocolat.

5. Vegan Mayo: I think this is a relatively recent find. I was pleasantly surprised when my Mum brought home a jar she had purchased from Aldi. There are a number of brands who make vegan mayo, so you don’t need to miss out if you are vegan.

6. Vegan Butter: With the rise of plant-based eating, supermarkets have definitely listened. There are so many vegan spreads available, made from olive or sunflower oil. My sister is definitely not a plant-based eater but couldn’t tell the difference!

7. Plant-based Milk: Changing from dairy milk to plant-based varieties can be a difficult transition, especially when you are used to diary milk in your English Breakfast tea. However, there are many plant-based milks available, including coconut, oat and soy. There are even barista versions for those who like to make coffee the professional way…

8. 70% Dark Chocolate: Being vegan doesn’t mean you have to give up chocolate. Lindt dark chocolate (70% plus) is vegan. Bournville is also vegan!

9. Marmite. Love it or hate it, it is vegan. Another spread, which is ideal on crumpets. This is also great if you eat plant-based as it is rich in B-vitamins.

10. Greg’s Vegan Sausage Roll: Maybe not something you can find everywhere, but a go-to for people who like pastry. I tried this for the first time the other day and thought it was amazing! And only £1….

Let me know if you try any of these! And please leave any of your recommendations below…

If you would like to know more about products that are vegan, @accidentallyveganuk is a great page to follow on Instagram 😊

TEN TIPS TO PROMOTE POSITIVE MENTAL WELL-BEING

Mental Health is just as important as physical health, but it is often overlooked. Although we are quick to notice a physical pain, we don’t often take notice of how we are feeling every day. Mental well-being is important for everyone. It affects how we treat ourselves, treat the people around us and what we are motivated to accomplish every day. We can all make small changes to promote positive mental well-being.

I have put together ten tips, which I personally believe can positively influence the way you feel:

1. Surround yourself with positive people.

I believe that the people you spend your time with influences your mood. Positive energy makes you feel good. Negative energy can get you down without you realising. It might be scary to distance yourself from certain people, but doing so could positively influence how you feel.

2.  Eat a balanced diet.

Eating healthy foods can also influence your mood. This includes eating fruit, vegetables and fibre. I believe in the 80/20 rule. Eat a balanced diet, but also treat yourself and listen to what your body craves.

3. Take a walk.

This could be in the morning before work, during your lunch break or in the evening. Walking gives you a chance to clear your mind and surround yourself in nature. As humans, we spend so much of our time indoors. Going outside for a while could be a healthy habit you incorporate into your day.

4. Sleep.

Research suggests that sleep has a major influence on mood. It is recommended that we sleep for 6-8 hours a night. Sleeping well will motivate you to accomplish more the next day, and make you feel happier in general!*

*Switch off all technology at least 1 hour before you sleep (these lights can affect circadian rhythms)- read a book/meditate/listen to music instead!

5. Tidy-up.

Keeping things tidy can make life seem a lot less stressful. ‘The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up’ by Marie Kondo is an amazing book to read if you want to de-clutter your life and never look back. Alternatively, at the end of each day, tidy up things you left scattered about so you can get on with your day without feeling stressed the next morning.

6. Talk to someone.

If you’re not feeling quite yourself, talk to a friend. A problem shared is a problem halved. Sometimes we keep so much to ourselves, the problem seems a lot bigger than it really is. You can gain incredible advice from other people, and they may have experienced something similar to you.  

7. Exercise.

Exercising releases endorphins (the happy hormone), so although finding the motivation to exercise can be challenging, the feeling after you have completed a workout is always worth it! Do something you enjoy, whether that’s running, yoga or dance. Joining clubs or societies is also a great way to meet like-minded people.

8. Write a list.

Sometimes it feels like we have so much going on, we don’t know where to start. Write down a list of everything you have to do and any worries you have. Seeing things in front of you will make things a lot clearer and you’ll be able to accomplish more. I also recommend writing a To Do list every evening so you can be productive the next morning.

9. Plan things to look forward to.

This could include scheduling in a break in the week to do something you enjoy (going to a café, meeting with friends or a phone call). Don’t make yourself so busy you don’t have time to do things you enjoy. Taking a day off can give you more space in your mind.

10. Take time off social media.

This can cause unnecessary stress through comparison. Talking to distant friends may bring you happiness, but scrolling for 3 hours won’t. Put down your phone and read a book instead 😊

There are so many more tips I could include which promote positive wellbeing. I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts…

Thank you for reading,

Emily x

TOP TEN TIPS FOR REDUCING PLASTIC CONSUMPTION

The environmental impact of plastic waste has become very clear in the last few months. Single-use plastic is causing serious problems, such as harming wildlife and polluting the ocean. It can feel impossible to tackle such a big issue on an individual scale. However, I have put together ten simple tips for reducing plastic consumption in your life…

1. Use a Coffee Cup

Coffee is a go-to people living a busy lifestyle. Single-use coffee cups can contain plastic, making them non-recyclable. Many coffee shops now offer a discount on hot drinks when you bring your reusable cup along. Therefore, bringing a coffee cup with you will not only prevent waste, but save you some money.

2. Buy a reusable bag

Bringing a reusable bag with you into University, work or town is another environmentally friendly habit. These can be purchased from numerous supermarkets, or you could simply bring a bag from home. Not only does this prevent you from paying 5p for plastic bags every time you shop, you can also carry more!

3. Ditch plastic cutlery

If you buy ready meals on-the-go or often get take-away, this can often come with plastic cutlery. If there is an option, choose wooden cutlery. Alternatively, you could bring your own metal cutlery wrapped in a small towel.

4. Bring a lunch box

When travelling, it can be easier to buy food. However, this is often contained in plastic packaging. Making meals at home and bringing leftovers with you avoids plastic consumption and is also a good way to save money!

5. Metal Straws

Everyone loves to use a straw when enjoying drinks. A metal straw is an amazing alternative to plastic ones. You can buy them online in bulk or at marketplaces. They are ideal for birthday presents and Christmas gifts. I find my flatmates always trying to steal mine, now that I no longer let them buy the plastic variety…

6. Reusable Bottle

It is easy to grab a bottle of water in a corner shop or on campus when you are thirsty. Another way to reduce plastic consumption is to purchase a reusable water bottle. The metal variety (such as Chile bottles) are especially popular at the moment. Fill them up before you leave the house and refill when you find a water station (or alternatively ask a café to do so). You’ll never have to buy a plastic bottle again!

7. Reusable Cotton Pads

This may be a strange one to consider, but also do-able. Some cotton pads contain plastic. Moreover, packaging for them is often plastic. I recently discovered reusable cotton pads, which work in exactly the same way as single-use pads but can be used more than once. They are also machine washable. Try something new and give it a go!

8. Zero waste beauty products

Finding products such as shampoo, conditioner and shower gel can be tough one when trying to reduce plastic. However, ‘Lush’ offer amazing products that come loose and work just as well. They have an amazing variety of products, which I have heard last longer than products contained in plastic packaging.

9. Choose paper bags over plastic in supermarkets.

Often when buying fruit and vegetables from the supermarket, they are contained in unnecessary plastic packaging. My top tip is to avoid this and choose loose products. However, if you go to the mushroom section, you will find paper bags- use these instead! Alternatively, place bananas in your trolley loose.

10. Use a Menstrual Cup

Warning males! But there are so many options for sustainable feminine care. These include tampons and sanitary wear made of bamboo. Alternatively, menstrual cups, which can be used time and time again.

If you’d like some more tips for living a more sustainable lifestyle, join the discussion on the closed Facebook Group, ‘Living Consciously Crew’, created by lifestyle and fitness blogger and YouTuber, Zanna Van Dijk

Thank you for reading my first blog post. Good luck with reducing plastic in your life! I’d be interested to hear your thoughts…

Emily x