An Illustrative Guide For A Better You

9 self-care habits that you should adopt this year because you deserve to be happy.

1. Create an up-beat playlist

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According to research by the University of Missouri, upbeat music boosts your mood. Yuna Ferguson, lead author of the study, notes that if you are going to put this research into practice then don't over-think it. Being in a constant state of "am I happy yet?" won't help change your mood. She suggests that you just simply enjoy the experience without focusing too much on the outcome. You could compile your own tunes or do what I did and search one up on Spotify: The Happy Playlist.

2. Do small exercises

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Try to incorporate these six simple stretch exercises into your everyday routine. It'll improve your circulation, motion range and calmness of mind. Try pairing this with your happy playlist!

3. Make breakfast a thing

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I've always wanted to be the kind of person that goes to bed feeling excited about breakfast the next morning. Your body has been fasting for at least 5-6 hours so it's in dire need of fuel. You gain energy and help your concentration levels. It can also be a part of your day where you can sit in peace. How about preparing your breakfast the night before. I like making pancake batter beforehand so that in the morning all I need to do is cook it. If you're serious about improving your life, you'll remember to have breakfast. Read more: Why Is Breakfast Important?

4. Spend 10 minutes tidying something

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This includes de-cluttering and getting rid of junk. Tidying your space, little by little, every day, will make a huge difference and help you feel organised. Plus, there are actual health/mind benefits too! Marie Kondo is the author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. In this book she talks about keeping objects that 'spark joy' and getting rid of things that have to meaning. Apply this mindset to every aspect of your life such as relationships and your thoughts. A 2013 study by the Association of Psychological Study also states that a clean/tidy environment leads people to do good things.

5. Buy flowers

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Have you ever wondered why we give flowers to the sick or at celebrations? Not only are they pretty to look at but flowers have a positive impact on emotional health. This 2005 article on evolutionary psychology presents findings that flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. They have a long-term positive effect on moods and create intimate connections. Try scouting supermarkets before closing time as they usually reduce their prices due to near sell-by-dates.

6. Watch a film that you enjoyed as a child

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Why old movies? Guess it reminds us of a time where we didn't have the work and responsibilities that we have now... and because these movies are awesome. Time to dust off your VHS tapes.

7. Take a break from the digital world

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I don't know about you but I sometimes get SO sick of staring at a screen all the time. Even going through your phone just before bed is really bad for you. Find time to go offline for a bit and clear your head. This article by The Guardian suggests that overexposure to technology makes children more miserable. Although the article specifically refers to children, I'm sure the same can be said for older teenagers and adults.

8. Find a passion/hobby

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You thinking about doing a thing? My advice? DO THE THING. Whether it's photography, skateboarding, painting... no matter who you are or how 'talented' you are, do what you want to do. Don't let anyone ever tell you 'no' or that it's a waste of time. If it makes you happy then go for it! Let that be your 2017 objective: to start/continue something that you're passionate about. You won't regret it, trust me.

9. Pamper yourself

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Designate one day where you pamper yourself. Whether it's a long bubble bath or trying out a fancy face mask. Use this time to wind down for a bit and to de-stress. Make 2017 a year for self care... spiritually, physically and mentally.