Sometimes, it feels as if the universe does nothing but throw us curve-balls that create stress, worry and anxiety; but there are some super simple ways that can help you stay on your a-game. After a hectic 2022, we've decided that more than ever, 2023 is really going to be the year to nurture the 'self'. Because why not? Hustle culture is so 2022, and burnout isn't a fun destination for anyone. Here are our top tips to help maintain that inner calm in 2023.

1. KEEP A JOURNAL

Putting pen to paper is incredibly cathartic and is a great way to help you release whatever's going on inside. Your journal is for your eyes only, so let the thoughts flow and write down whatever it is that comes to mind, whether it’s good, bad or otherwise.

There’s a great li’l book we love called ‘The happiness project – one sentence journal’ where you write down one thing that made you happy on that particular day. By the end of the year you’ll have yourself a tiny book of goodness filled with all the awesome things you experienced, serving as a great reminder that amongst the stress and challenges, life can be pretty darn amazing.

2. SKIP THE COFFEE AND OPT FOR TEA, INSTEAD

Coffee can make you jittery and whilst there's nothing quite like the smell (and taste) of freshly ground coffee beans first thing in the morning, it’s probably not the greatest option for you if you’re prone to anxiety. Tea can be just as delicious and also has a heap of remedial-type health benefits. Check out our faves (and what they’re best for) here. 

3. CREATE A MORNING ROUTINE

Hands up if you’re a grumpy-bum in the morning? Is it your natural state or is it triggered by waking up late or having a restless sleep? Your morning ritual can really set the tone for the rest of your day; if you wake up late or startled, it almost creates instant stress and tension as you think about how behind you already are (and all the things you have to get done within the day).

Try and wake up a little earlier in the mornings; maybe spend some time meditating, journaling, or even writing a list of all the things you hope to achieve that day (and think about how great you’ll feel once you’ve done them). Eat a breakfast that fuels you (ditch anything sugary that will just create a mood slump later on) and maybe listen to your favourite feel-good podcast instead of the news as you’re getting ready.

4. PRACTICE MEDITATION OR MINDFULNESS

We know this one gets talked about endlessly, but it’s hard not to because meditation really is just so effective. It doesn’t cost you a thing and isn’t harmful to your health, so why not give it a go? You could find a local community group who practice mindfulness in a larger group (and often in beautiful locations) or go it solo and download an app that provides guided meditation tutorials. There is no right or wrong here, but it’s all about zoning out and calming both body and mind for a while. Find and do whatever works for you.

5. DON'T BE AFRAID TO SAY "NO"

Saying "no" can be really hard because we don't want to disappoint or upset those we love; but sometimes, saying "no" is a necessary part of self-care. There's no shame in putting yourself first and prioritising your needs ahead of someone else's. Just be polite about it - they'll understand.

 6. PLAN AHEAD

For those with anxious tendencies, having a daily routine can be a really helpful way to ease your worries and reassure you that things are in order and in control. Relax your nervous system by planning ahead so that you know exactly what’s coming your way - whether it's scheduling daily tasks into a calendar by the time it will take to complete them, or working out how long your commute to uni/work/that important appointment is going to take you the following day, it all forms part of feeling prepared and less like things might go awry. There are a heap of planning tools and apps that help you get organised, too.

 7. TALK ABOUT IT

If things feel like they’re getting a bit much, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone for a chat – whether it’s your bestie, your mum, your favourite uncle, a trusted health professional, or a support line like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) if you're in Australia, talking through your worries can often help release that burden and help put things in perspective. Often when we say things out aloud, we realise they're not nearly as bad as how they sounded in our heads. It's also just nice to know that someone's got your back, too. Support is out there - don't be afraid to seek it!

 8. SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR PET (OR SOMEONE ELSE'S)

Really, this one needs no explanation, we all know about dem (fluffy) feels. If you don't have a fury friend, hit YouTube and just type in 'cute cat videos'. You're welcome!

 9. REMEMBER TO TAKE TIME OUT FOR YOURSELF

A huuuuge and often overlooked part of self-care. Take some ‘you’ time to do what you love, away from the regular stresses of daily life. Where's your happy place? Is it going for a solo walk, getting a massage, a facial, sitting down in a quiet place and reading a book? Wherever it is, go there, and go there often.

Please note: this piece is irelated to lifestyle habits and ntended to inform only - it by no way substitutes a professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If you are suffering from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression or are experiencing any other emotional or pschological issues, please check in with a trusted health/medical professional who can help devise a personalised treatment plan best suited to your needs.