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Vegan goes on Holiday to Dubai

So last minute my Dad and I have decided to jet off to Dubai. We have some CCTV/security business, networking and holiday fun times to attend to. My Dad turned 46 so this get away should also be a nice surprise break for him to celebrate. Lately the weather has been pretty bleak and dizzly here in England so here is hoping that it will be the opposite over in Dubai- bring on the sunshine and shopping (seriously though the malls are epic!). However Dubai was difficult when I went there as a vegetarian let alone a vegan. I hope that I can keep up a plant based lifestyle. I am worried about having a large enough supply to water like I am used to here (I drink 3-4 litres a day). I am even more anxious about how I will be able to find food that I like. For the flight I have requested Emirates vegan meal options so I hope they will get this right and that the food served is onion free. We have breakfast included at the hotel but I do not know what vegan options will provided. I did...
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17 reflections: 2017

New Year, New Slippers. People often use this time of year to unintentionally set some difficult, unrealistic resolutions. I am instead going to share 17 things that I have experienced or learned in 2017. Some of them represent progress that I have made while other points are not so cheery, so here it goes: Secured my first full time job in Mental Health services. Graduated with a Masters which I completed under scholarship Started my driving lessons (but haven't completed them ooops). Health has been wobbly but I am doing better a prioritisng it. Single AF but I noticed it more this year as every one else seems to be in a relationship Explored places around the UK including Liverpool where I went to a hen do for the first time Made some lovely new friends and have been socialising more. Was reminded that even adults can behave selfishly but I do not need to take it personally-their opinions are often more reflective of themselves rather than me Saw some films at th...
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Goodbye 2017

That's it for 2017 folk! It has just flown by- what a whirlwind of things which feel as though they happened just a week ago. It definitely highlights how important it is to cherish every day, because life moves  so  quickly. I started 2017 with the desire to make big changes in my new job. This was hard, and there were so many points throughout the year when I questioned how it would ever happen. My manager (a Clinical psychologist) seemed uninterested in staff development which was deflating to say the least. Coming into this job from a Masters was not mental stimulating enough for me but I have gradually managed to create some learning opportunities for myself and my colleagues. I cannot wait to be bolder and braver at making way for my needs. I also wanted to make some changes in my personal life, this year. I have had to adjust to being back home. Unlike previous years where I have been at university/school, I have had to put effort into keeping connected, network wi...
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Five ways to stay active over Christmas

It’s no surprise that cold weather and short days are not the greatest motivation to get you out of bed and on a 5k run! But research supports that regular exercise releases chemicals in your body that can make you feel good, boosts your self-esteem, help you to concentrate, improves physical health and  sleep patterns. You might even enjoy the crisp air as well as these benefits (again everything in moderation so avoid obsessive exercise!).  Brave the crowds and browse the stores. Why not pursue some retail therapy and treat yourself to a little some thing too!  Go ice-skating! At this time of year there are a number of outdoor ice-rinks so we might be able to find one local to you. Winter walkies! I adore walking and it is perfect when I feel short on time, energy or motivation. This alternative to a hardcore gym sesh will still work wonders for releasing those endorphins. You can take your family, dog, friend or I tend to go on my own after dinner. Prefer...
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Self Love club

Yep I am talking about SELF CARE. It is easy to neglect ourselves during December. While it may feel like the busiest time of the year. it pays to look after number 1. Perhaps when work or social pressures pile up, the routines that normally keep us healthy and happy — are usually the first thing to go amiss.  Also increased stress, eating poorly and drinking too much can also exacerbate issues like stress, anxiety and depression. Please try to take care of yourself — avoid don’t drinking or eating to excess and keep up with your usual routines of exercise and whatever keeps you together during the year.
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Be-YOU-tiful

Accept Who You Are Don’t get hung up on what the Christmas holidays are supposed to be like and how you’re supposed to feel. If you’re comparing your festivities to some movie perfect ideal, they’ll always come up short.  Some of us make people laugh, others cook fantastic meals. Some of us share our lifestyle with the people who live close to us, others live very differently.  I do enjoy socialising but generally in small doses and when I am some where I feel comfortable.  If you have mental health problems, don’t feel pressured to do more than you feel up to. Try to figure out some of your limits and take things as they come. Remember Christmas is just one day of the year! So whether alone or with others this Christmas, celebrate who you are. 
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Be Heard

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I have been guilty of hiding my feelings -  It’s hard to admit that at such an exciting time of year, you don’t actually feel that great. I used to think that it made me weak, needy or a downer.  But talking about your feelings can improve your mood and make it easier to deal with the tough times.  This helps us to take charge or ‘self-managing’ our mental health and doing what we can to stay healthy.  You may be surprised how others will be able to support you, or they may be able to relate to how you feel. Others may help you come up with practical solutions or simply help you feel less alone. It is helpful to create space for these conversations and also worth identifying who you can speak to about wellbeing.  When I feel overwhelmed I often try to reach out to friends that I trust. I find it reassuring that this also helps others to speak up about their feelings to me too.  Aternatively you may also want to tell a professio...
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