Essma Bechkoum is a kick-ass girl with can-do attitude, she’s Bipolar too.
27 year-old Essma shares her tips to help you get through good days and bad.
Diagnosed in 2012, she’s been learning to live with the disorder.
Sometimes going back to basics is best.
- Get yourself into a good sleep routine – your body and mind will thank you for it. It can be difficult to fall asleep, or even oversleep when moods are low. But establishing a regular routine of pre-bedtime relaxation will help your body ease into slumber.
- Plan your morning the night before – although the prospect of tomorrow, can at times fill you with dread, preparing yourself for the day ahead can help break down what may have previously seemed impossible.
- Get started! – listening to your thoughts and feelings can sometimes numb you into inactivity. So don’t wait for the “right time.” Create it!
- Movement is essential to a healthy mind and body – staying in bed might seem like the safest option when mood and energy levels are low. The best thing you can do for yourself is keep moving. Go for a stroll, do some light yoga, or dance to your favourite song!
- Eat well – feeling down can have severe implications on your appetite, either causing you to eat more, or curbing your desire for food altogether. But regular, nutritious meals and plenty of fresh fruit, nuts and water will help keep energy and mood levels up.
- Talk it out – that first step can seem like a real hurdle. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and can get help from family, friends and/or professionals. Keeping a journal can also help clear the mind.
- Pamper yourself – there are times when getting in the shower seems like a tall order. So make it about you; use your favourite products; have a candle-lit bath instead; or book a treatment. After all, you deserve to make yourself feel good.
What do you like to do, to be kind to yourself? Leave a comment below and let us know.
