Taking care of our mental health should be a top priority all year round, but Mental Health Awareness Week is a fantastic way to bring the conversation to the forefront, listen and maybe learn a little something about ourselves and those around us.

Over the past 18 months, skin care and self care have become synonymous - whether you're a parent or key worker whose only moment of peace comes when you're in the shower, or you've been stuck at home with a lot more time to spend on your skin. Taking a few minutes to clean your face has meant more now than ever before.

This year, the Mental Health Foundation are encouraging us to 'connect to nature' as there's a whole lot of evidence to support how nature plays a role in protecting and supporting our mental health. Now, you don't need to climb a mountain (especially in this weather!) but there are plenty of other ways you can build a relationship with nature.

Here are a few of our favs, you can see the full list and read further information at mentalhealth.org.uk

Take a moment to reflect. Listen out for birdsong, watch that leaf flutter to the ground, look up at the shape of the clouds, take in the smell of the rain, pick a basil leaf and taste its freshness and sweetness.

For many reasons, not everyone can gain access to natural places - parks, fields, woods etc. But there's nothing to say you can't bring nature to you. Houseplants, a pot of fresh herbs from the supermarket - something you can see, touch and smell. You could even kick back, pop on a face mask and binge watch Gardener's World. It's about taking that time to appreciate nature - even if it's stroking your succulent while your serums sink in.

Taking care and making conscious choices makes us feel good; to know we're doing our bit for the planet. Make the switch to reusable, stitch up the hole in your top rather than buying a new one, turn off the taps while you clean your face. Every little helps.

Join the the conversation and share your tips with us on Instagram