Lockdown means that we’re all spending a lot more time at home than we’re used to. Even some of the introverts, who prefer to cosy up with a book in the sun, are starting to feel restless and under the influence of cabin fever. Now, more than ever, it’s important to look after our mental health and wellness in the home.

There are a few practical tips to make sure that you look after the wellbeing of yourself and your family.

1.  Eat healthy, balanced meals

When your body is healthy and fed with nutritious meals, then it will help your mind to feel more focused. Reducing sugary food will mean that you have more sustained energy and keep your mood in tip-top shape without experiencing sugar lows.

Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake also helps maintain a healthy immune system. Ensure you are receiving the recommended daily dose of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins C and D and Zinc. 

2.  Burn candles and smudge

Certain aromas can set a calm mood and inspire relaxation. For example, burning sage can cleanse a room, purify the space and invite positive energy. Fragrant candles can have a similar effect, releasing beautiful aromas that can nurture a home. We currently stock smudge, palo santo and candles and will soon be adding incense, frankincense and myrrh to our range to help you cleanse your home space.

Buy your gorgeous, fragranced candles here.

Browse locally-made smudge sticks and palo santo here.

3.  Practice meditation

Mindfulness is an effective and powerful way to reduce anxiety and lower stress levels. People choose to meditate in different ways. You may enjoy journaling to work through your thoughts and feelings, while others may prefer silent breathing and yoga. Whatever works for you, do that! 

In these stressful times, we can take ownership of our own mental wellbeing by incorporating these into our daily practice. Early in the morning, before the day starts and your home gets busy, is an ideal time to find a quiet 20 minutes, light your candle and burn some incense and spend some quiet time in meditation or prayer.

4.  Exercise

Exercising releases endorphins and keeps your mood in good spirits. Physical movement is known to maintain both physical and mental health. Go for a walk, jog, do pilates or a home workout - the options are endless. In addition, when your body is healthy and your immune system is strong then there is less chance of you catching the virus.

5.  Pamper yourself

Make sure that you carve out time for yourself to do the things that you love. For example, cook your favourite meal, listen to your favourite music, paint your nails and soak in a bubble bath (keep in mind the water restrictions).

 We sell beautiful, artisanal soaps that not only smell gorgeous and are made from natural ingredients, but also leave you feeling pampered and your skin feeling soft.

Buy our artisanal soaps here.

6.  Keep the home safe

When you do leave the home to visit the grocery store, drop your children at school or go for a jog then you increase the risk of getting the virus. Make sure that you keep the home a protected space to come back to where you feel safe. Practical ways to do this include wearing a mask and sanitising regularly.

Browse a variety of masks at our online shop.

Buy your hand sanitiser here.

Browse our health and wellness products

At Mzansi Beautiful, we understand the importance of carving out a special place to feel safe and nurtured. We sell a variety of products that promise to add value to your life. Each of our items is locally made and each purchase that you make helps a small business navigate during these tough times. 

Browse our health and wellness products here.

 Thank you for your supporting Mzansi Beautiful and our makers and suppliers. Stay safe!