Crazy in (self) love

Self-care is important during the stress of the pandemic.
Self-care has never been more necessary to our daily routine after more than 15 months living in a global pandemic, so we spoke to Robyn Taaffe, a nurse with VIGO Health, about simple stress-reducing tips.
She says: "If you one do one of these stress-busting ideas a day then I know it will benefit you. Give it a go. Looking after yourself benefits everybody in your life, not just you."
Deep belly breathing
Simple, but effective. Take a deep breath, placing your awareness on your belly as it rises and falls with each breath. Repeat this for a few breath cycles and let yourself relax with each exhale.
Speaking with someone
Counselling and therapy isn't just for mental health issues. Speaking to a counsellor can help us navigate through tough times, manage stress and be proactive about our mental health.

Robyn Taaffe, a nurse with VIGO Health.
Movement breaks
Get outside for a walk or schedule in your favourite workout class. Movement is key to both our mental and physical health and is a great self-care activity as it helps us spend more time in the present.
Unplug yourself
Life is almost all online right now, so sometimes we can feel plugged in 24/7. Try to schedule time away from your screen or leave your phone at home when you go for your walk or workout class. Read one chapter of a book (no, Kindle doesn't count), to give yourself a break from staring at a screen and technology in general.
Meditation
Meditation is a practice that brings our awareness to the present moment. When we spend more time in the present, it relieves stress. There are lots of types of meditations that you can try on YouTube for free, for people of all levels of experience. You can also try wellness apps - I find Calm or Headspace to be great.
VIGO Health is a new health cover proposition in Ireland. For the full list of benefits and more information on how to sign up please visit vigohealth.ie
WIN A SPA BREAK
VIGO Health is giving you the chance to win an overnight stay for two in the luxurious Bellinter House, Co Meath.
The fabulous prize includes one night B&B in the countryside retreat for two people, as well as a relaxing 40-minute back massage in the Bathhouse Spa.
To be in with a chance to win, simply send your name and contact details to competitions@sundayworld.com - and tell us why you deserve to win. Don't forget to put 'VIGO', in the subject line.
Entries close Friday, July 16. Usual T&Cs apply.
Today's Headlines
Huge Crowd demand investigation into death of schoolboy Noah Donohoe
Attack probe | Two men arrested over fatal assault after stag party as victim named
predator | Dublin paedophile jailed for grooming underage girl following UK sting operation
horror attack | Video captures moment man is brutally assaulted at Dun Laoghaire DART station
love on screen | Love Island winners Ekin-Su and Davide land their own reality TV show
emirates alight | Gabriel Jesus scores brace on home debut as Arsenal overcome Leicester
serious risk | Convicted murderer of Ana Kriegel ‘Boy A’ is moved to adult prison
recovered | Dublin man faces trial accused of stealing cars on sale for 'test drives’
faith | Taoiseach and President among mourners as Green leader Eamon Ryan pays tribute to mother at funeral
'volatile situation' | Two Irish army officers evacuated from DR Congo after reports of ‘security concerns’