When a health intervention or course of treatment comes to an end, it can be an important moment to focus on what we can do to support ourselves. We might feel fully better, or we might know there are still lots of things to manage. The principles of this Lifestyle As Medicine Programme (LAMP) – sleeping better, moving more, eating well, reducing stress, deepening connection and minimising harm – will support us at all stages of a recovery journey. So read on to see how these ideas might support you as you take your next steps.
The health benefits of good quality sleep really are impressive! This makes thinking about sleeping better a great focus for self-care for all of us, whether we find restorative sleep challenging or are just looking for small improvements. There are ideas to support you on our Sleep Better page.
Movement is a brilliant tool to build up both our physical and mental health – and this doesn’t have to mean running a marathon. Research shows that a small amount of movement can be really beneficial. Use our Move More page to guide you through reflecting on the amount of movement you do now and how to progress from here to your goals. It is worth checking with your healthcare professional if you have any concerns about whether your health challenges mean you need to take extra care.
As research helps us uncover just how key our food choices are to our wellbeing, you might find it helpful to think about eating well as you transition from support with your health to self-care. This is not about body shape, or judging foods as good or bad but our Eat Well page will guide you through some of the science linking food and mood.
Keeping stress levels under control as you step away from a period of healthcare intervention is really important – do you know what strategies work for you? Take a look at our Reduce Stress page for some actionable ideas.
Sometimes finishing treatment feels great; sometimes we can feel a sense of anxiety or even abandonment. Thinking about our sense of connection can be really helpful. Our Deepen Connection page has suggestions for connecting to ourselves, others and our environment – plus if it feels the right time to try a new activity, the How Are You websites are full of local ideas.
Negative habits are normal – we all do things that aren’t so good for us and neglect some of the things that might help especially when tired, unwell or stressed. But this is a key moment to reflect on any behaviours you notice that are unhealthy and see if you can find kinder ways to cope. Our Minimise Harm page might give you some ideas.
