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Spring usually begins in March and it is during this month that we start to notice a change in the weather and hopefully see less grey dreary days and sunnier, clearer days. Often people describe the start of spring as a time when they come out of hibernation and start to think more positively and plan ways to improve their wellbeing.

Evidence suggests that there are many factors that improve wellbeing and most people would agree that giving to others is a good idea. Studies state that an act of giving or kindness (no matter how small) can increase our mood, provide a sense of purpose and self-worth and can lead to us feeling more satisfied with our lives. It can also serve to strengthen relationships and build new ones, and as social contact, is essential for our wellbeing and sense of belonging, it can only be a good thing.

As February celebrates love, we could not think of a better time to consider what we can do to love ourselves a little bit more.

Why? Evidence suggests that increasing our self-esteem can help to reduce depression. Although it is normal during periods of low mood and depression to be critical about ourselves, it is unhelpful for our psychological wellbeing. So, here are a few tips on how to improve your self-esteem:

It can be daunting when your list of New Year’s Resolutions is as long as your arm. In addition to the post-holiday blues, not being able to keep your resolutions by late January may increase your stress levels. After the holiday’s when the decorations have been taken down and packed away for another year.

When your holiday decorations are packed up and stored away, the frustration of an unused gym membership or other reminders of failed resolutions can make the later winter months feel hopeless.

Christmas is a time for being merry and enjoying family parties, but it can be stressful too. The family are stuck indoors, the children are overexcited, there’s the tree to decorate, presents to buy and wrap, and food to cook. It’s no wonder the festive feeling can fizzle out. Make sure this Christmas doesn’t become a day to remember for all the wrong reasons.

Summer holidays are here. The kids are at home, full of energy and running around and raring to go. How on earth are you going to survive the next six weeks let alone get any work done? Here's some top tips to keeping the kids occupied during the summer holidays.

TV and DVDs

Too much TV will result in a very grumpy, bored child who won't leave you alone. Use it sparingly and it'll keep the kids quiet for you when you really need it. Playing the occasional DVD or sitting them in front of Cbeebies will buy you a bit of relaxation time, but don’t abuse this option!

Almost invariably it happens a few days after the end of Ramadan: the letdown.
 
Fasting is finished; the nightly prayers are over; the group gatherings to break the fast have vanished. We can eat, drink, and be merry again when the sun is shining. And that special feeling you have in your heart-the one that keeps you going despite your hunger and thirst-gradually fades away.
 
The spiritual high evaporates, and all you are left with are the bad habits you tried to shed during Ramadan, but mysteriously rear their heads once it is over. The lessons learned and spiritual benefits gained during that month are intended to carry over for the rest of the year until next Ramadan.