Knowledge
10 tips for more wellbeing in everyday life
Busy days, few breaks, always reachable: your own wellbeing can quickly fall by the wayside. The good news is that small habits are often enough to make your everyday life more pleasant. Pick the ideas from these ten that suit you.
At a glance
- Start with one or two tips, not all ten.
- Consistency matters more than perfection.
- The tips are general everyday ideas and are no substitute for medical advice.
Start the day well
1. Treat yourself to a small morning routine
A few quiet minutes in the morning can shape your whole day. It doesn't have to be anything big: a glass of water, a few stretches by the open window or five minutes of mindful breathing before you look at your phone.
2. Keep water to hand
It's easy to forget to drink when things are hectic. Put a bottle or glass where you can see it on your desk. If plain water is too boring for you, try a few slices of cucumber, lemon or fresh mint.
3. Eat calmly and with variety
Take time for meals deliberately instead of eating in front of a screen. Colourful plates with vegetables, fruit and wholegrains bring variety. Cooking together with friends or family also turns food into a lovely moment.
Movement that fits into everyday life
4. Build in movement along the way
It doesn't always have to be the gym. Take the stairs, get off one stop earlier or walk while you're on the phone. Lots of small journeys add up over the day.
5. Get out into the fresh air
A short walk in your lunch break helps you switch off. Daylight, movement and a change of scene help many people think more clearly again.
Breaks and mindfulness
6. Plan real breaks
Get up from your desk regularly, stretch and let your gaze wander into the distance. An alarm or a fixed slot in your calendar will remind you.
7. Take digital time-outs
Deliberately put your smartphone aside, for example while eating or in the last hour before bed. Turn off notifications you don't need. This creates space for calm. Many smartphones offer a focus or do-not-disturb mode for this, which you can switch on automatically at set times.
8. Capture the good moments
In the evening, write down three things you enjoyed that day. It takes two minutes and turns your attention to what went well.
Winding down in the evening
9. Shape your evening and your sleeping space
Regular bedtimes help your rhythm. A calm evening ritual, such as reading, a cup of herbal tea or quiet music, signals that the day is over. A dark, well-aired bedroom and comfortable clothes you feel good in make your evenings cosier, for example soft pyjamas.
10. Nurture your relationships
A call to a friend, a walk with your neighbour, dinner with the family: time together does you good. Plan regular get-togethers so they don't get lost in everyday life. A quick message in between also shows others you're thinking of them, and hardly takes any time.
How to keep it up
Don't try to do everything at once. Choose one tip for this week and link it to something you do anyway, for example stretching after brushing your teeth. If it doesn't work out one day, that's no problem. Tomorrow is a new attempt.
FAQ
Which tip should I start with?
The one you find easiest. A quick success motivates you to keep going.
How long does it take for a new habit to stick?
That varies a lot. It helps to keep the new habit small and repeat it at the same time every day.
Do these tips replace a visit to the doctor?
No. They are general ideas for everyday life. If you have symptoms or questions about your health, please talk to your doctor.
