David Allerton Founder
Founder’s Letter
I am thrilled to welcome you to SE-LF; a company that is passionate about providing high-quality skincare experiences whilst providing a gateway to accessible self-care and mental wellbeing.
Unlocking the Power of Self-Care through Skincare
We understand that skincare experiences can be so much more than just a way to improve the appearance of your skin. Skincare is heavily based around the concept of “ritual” and the products are sensory nature, this offers an excellent opportunity to practise mindfulness, be present in the moment and improve mental health.
At SE-LF, we believe that self-care should never feel “selfish”. That’s why we strive to provide a range of self-care boxes that feature handpicked products, packaged in environmentally sustainable ways. We are also Carbon Neutral Certified, through our reforestation partnerships that saw us plant over 700 trees in 2023 alone, the equivalent of 3 acres. So,
you can feel good about using our products.
We are passionate about providing our customers with the tools they need to take care of themselves, both physically and mentally. Our self-care boxes are curated with this in mind. Each contain both this magazine, as well as an audio guide (available via our website, YouTube & Spotify) to not only explain the products, but also lead you through relaxation techniques.
We believe our experiences will provide you with moments of mindfulness and self-care that allow you to reset and recharge.
At SE-LF, we are committed to doing good and being good; not just for ourselves but for the planet and the people around us. We invite you to explore our products and take the first step towards prioritising your self-care.
What’s in the Box?
Inside you will find 5 handpicked products which we have been curated into a self-care experience designed to help you relax and unwind
Before you start:
- We suggest you read this magazine, especially, The UNWIND Experience Hints & Tips (Page 6) and Relaxation Techniques (Page 8)
- Decide between the Bathing Experience (Page 12) or Showering Experience (Page 13). Guided Audios are available via QR Codes on these pages or via the website www.se-lf.co.uk
And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist
This aromatherapy comforting mist creates a calm and soothing atmosphere that will help you unwind.
See Page 14
Rest Your Head Foaming Oil
With Lavender, coconut oil and Jojoba oil; wash away the day and prepare for a peaceful night’s sleep
See Page 15
Lavender & Black Pepper Bath Salts by Candle Spa
Winner of the Editors Choice Mama & Baby Award 2020
See Page 16
Lemongrass & Ginger Body Wash by Candle Spa
Parabens free, SLS free and vegan friendly
See Page 17
Sleep Tight Body Butter
Carefully crafted with key ingredients that work harmoniously to enhance your nighttime skincare routine
See Page 20
26| The Science of Serotonin
The UNWIND Experience Hints & Tips
Give yourself some “Me Time” through the gift of self-care. It’s time to focus on you! Here are some helpful hints and tips to get you started:
Self-care is essential for maintaining good mental and physical health. It is important to take time out of our busy schedules to nurture and care for ourselves. A self-care experience can be an enriching and rewarding way to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and overall wellbeing. Here are some hints and tips to get the most from your experience:
Choose your experience. We know that not everyone has or enjoys a bath, so we’ve created two separate versions of this experience; one for the bath and another for the shower. Guides to these are found on pages 12 & 13 of this magazine. Use our guided audio to help you regulate your experience as well
as telling you what to do with the products. It will remind you to stay present and focus on mindfulness practices. The guided audio will help you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy it to the fullest.
Create the right setting as this is crucial for a successful self-care experience. Set aside some time, preferably 45-60 minutes, to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Put on some calming background music or follow along with our guided audio to help set the mood. Turn your phone to silent and for this short time forget the world around you. This is time for you.
Use soft lighting if possible, dim the lights, use lamps or secondary
lights, and light some candles to create a serene ambiance.
Set out your products in advance to help you stay present and focused on the experience. Take the bottles and jars out of the box, loosen or remove the lids while your hands are dry, and place them where they’ll be easy to reach later. Having your products ready and accessible will help you stay in the moment and avoid distractions.
Be present and focus on the experience as this will help you have a successful self-care experience. It is easy to get lost in our day-to-day thoughts, but it’s important to stay present and mindful during this time. Notice the textures of the products, feel the water on your skin, and enjoy the aromas. By remaining focused on the experience, you will reap the maximum benefits of the self-care session. Use relaxation techniques to help promote a sense of wellbeing. We have provided a guide on page 8 which we recommend reading before doing your experience.
Return your bottles and jars by packing them back into your box at the end of your experience and visit www.se-lf.co.uk to find out how to do a free return so that we can clean and steralise them for reuse.
If you enjoy this experience and would like to try out more or if you would like to gift an experience to a friend or loved one; our boxes are available via the website.
Relaxation Techniques
In our modern lives, feeling stressed and overwhelmed has become all too common. We often find ourselves longing for respite from the constant demands and pressures. The good news is that within each of us lies the ability to access a profound sense of calm and inner peace. By dedicating just a few minutes each day to practicing these relaxation techniques, you can create a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos.
Throughout this guide, we will dive into the essence of each technique, providing you with clear and concise step-by-step instructions. Whether you are a beginner or someone familiar with relaxation practices, you will discover new insights and practical tools to unwind, reduce stress, and cultivate a state of optimal wellbeing.
So, take a deep breath, release any tension, and allow yourself to fully engage in this transformative journey towards a more relaxed and centered self. Get ready to embrace these powerful relaxation techniques and unlock the secrets to a balanced and rejuvenated life. Let’s begin!
Whilst the products we have handpicked for our boxes make a wonderful experience just by themselves, making sure you take time to be present and maximise your relaxation through additional mental and physical techniques really elevates this to the next level.
Before using the products, we highly recommend you check out this handy guide to three of these techniques
Box Breathing
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often neglect the power of our breath as a tool for relaxation and self-regulation. Box Breathing is a simple yet profound technique that involves controlled and deliberate breathing patterns, enabling us to find balance and tranquility within, harnessing the power of your breath to harmonise your body and mind. This technique calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and enhances mental clarity, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with a grounded and centered presence.
Let’s explore how to practice Box Breathing: Find a comfortable position and gently close your eyes.
Step 1: Inhale deeply and slowly through your nose, counting to four as you fill your lungs and notice the sensation of your chest rising
Step 2: Hold your breath for a count of four, embracing the pause
Step 3: Exhale slowly and steadily through your mouth, counting to four and notice your chest falling
Step 4: Hold your breath for another count of four
Repeat this rhythmic pattern for several counts, noticing how your body and mind relax each time
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Physical tension often accompanies our daily stresses, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and a sense of unease. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a technique that enables us to systematically release tension from our muscles, promoting profound relaxation and a sense of rejuvenation. Let’s explore how to practice PMR:
Find a comfortable position, relax your body and gently close your eyes
Step 1: Focus your attention on a specific muscle group, start with your toes and your feet.
Step 2: Tense the muscles in that area, squeezing them tightly for about 5-10 seconds, sensing the tension building.
Step 3: Suddenly release the tension, allowing the muscles to relax completely, feeling a wave of soothing relief wash over them.
Step 4: Progressively move on to the next muscle group, working your way up through your body, from your feet to your face
Step 5: Take your time with each muscle group, noticing any subtle changes in sensation and consciously releasing any lingering tension.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation brings about a heightened sense of body awareness and empowers you to consciously release tension stored within your muscles. By practicing PMR regularly, you can enjoy enhanced physical relaxation, improved sleep, and an overall sense of wellbeing.
Simple Mindfulness Practice
Close your eyes gently and bring your attention to the present moment. Notice the sensations within yourself, the weight of your body on the chair or cushion, or the feeling of contact between your feet and the ground.
Now, shift your focus to your thoughts. Instead of engaging with them or attempting to push them away, simply observe them as if they were passing clouds in the sky. Allow them to come and go without judgment or attachment.
Next, redirect your attention to the sounds around you. Listen to the symphony of noises, whether it’s the distant hum of traffic, the gentle rustling of leaves, or the soft melody of birdsong. Embrace the sounds as they arise and fade away, allowing them to become a soothing backdrop to your experience.
As you continue to sit in stillness, become aware of any bodily sensations that may arise. Notice any areas of tension, discomfort, or warmth. Observe these sensations without trying to change or fix them, simply accepting them as part of your present experience. Throughout this practice, remind yourself that relaxation comes from embracing the stillness within, regardless of external circumstances. Allow yourself to release any expectations or judgments about how you should feel or what the experience should be like.
Bathing Experience
Start by preparing your bathroom. Ensure that it’s clean and free from any distractions.
Take the And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist (No.1) and spritz it throughout the bathroom. You can also spray it on a flannel and place it over a radiator (if safe to do so) to help the aroma linger throughout the experience.
Begin to run your bath and as you are doing so, decant the Rest Your Head Foam (No.2) and the Lavender & Black Pepper Bath Salts by Candle Spa (No.3) into the water. Stir with your hand to ensure the salts have dissolved and the oil has turned into a generous foam.
Before cleansing, take your time to inhale the aroma deeply several times.. The essential oils in these product can help promote relaxation and boost your sleep.
Now take the Lemongrass & Ginger Body Wash by Candle Spa (No.4). Place a small amount (about the size of a 20p) into the palm of your hands and lather together. Lathering the cleanser helps the product distribute more widely as well as helping release the fragrance. Use the wash across your body. You may need to apply more cleanser as you go. Lemongrass and Ginger are known to aid muscle relaxation.
Once thoroughly cleansed, rinse off the wash with water.
It’s time to relax. Spend 10-20 minutes to focus on this. Lay fully back in a comfortable position supporting your head. This is a good time to use the Relaxation Techniques found on page 8.
Before leaving the bath, stir the water at the base to redistribute the salt and foam. Cup the water in your hands and pour this across your body. The minerals and essential oils lead to improving the skin barrier function, hydrating the skin, and decreasing inflammation.
Once out of the bath, if you are able to, air dry, but if not, pat dry with a towel rather than rub.
To apply the Sleep Tight Body Butter (No.5), rub between your hands to warm and then gently sweep across your body. Apply a small amount (the size of a 20p) each time and layer if required.
Use the remaining And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist (No.1) to spray onto bed linen or to fragrance your bedroom, enhancing your relaxation throughout the night.
Finally, don’t forget to pack the bottle and jars back into the box and visit www.se-lf.co.uk to find out how to return them free of charge.
Showering Experience
Start by preparing your bathroom. Ensure that it’s clean and free from any distractions.
Take the And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist (No.1) and spritz it throughout the bathroom. You can also liberally onto a flannel. Once the shower is hot, this can be left at the base to create a scented steam.
Before stepping into the shower, mix some of the Rest Your Head Foam (No.2) with the Lavender & Black Pepper Bath Salts by Candle Spa (No.3) in it’s jar, using your fingers to create a body scrub. Add a little foaming oil at a time until you have an even and slightly loose consistency. We normally find about half of the oil works well, and ensure you mix it right into the corners.
Step into the shower and use gentle circular motions to exfoliate and stimulate circulation. Be sure to focus on areas of rough or dry skin. Do not use on your face or sensitive areas. The salt is very course, so it is important not to be too vigorous.
Rinse off the salt and foaming oil mixture using warm water.
Place a small amount of the Lemongrass & Ginger Body Wash by Candle Spa (No.4), about the size of a 20p, into the palm of your hands and lather together. Lathering the cleanser helps the product distribute more widely, as well as helping release the fragrance. Lemongrass and Ginger are known to aid muscle relaxation. Use the wash all over your body and rinse with water..
Spend the next 5-10 minutes as time to relax. This is a good time to use the Relaxation Techniques found on page 8.
When ready, leave the shower and if you are able to, air dry, but if not, pat dry with a towel rather than rub.
To apply the Sleep Tight Body Butter (No.5), rub between your hands to warm and then gently sweep across your body. Apply a small amount (the size of a 20p) each time and layer if required.
Use the remaining And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist (No.1) to spray onto bed linen or to fragrance your bedroom, enhancing your relaxation throughout the night.
Finally, don’t forget to pack the bottle and jars back into the box and visit www.se-lf.co.uk to find out how to return them free of charge.
And Relax... Room & Pillow Mist
Your ticket to tranquility and a restful sleep. This aromatherapy comforting mist creates a calm and soothing atmosphere that will help you unwind.
Our secret blend of key ingredients works together harmoniously to promote relaxation and a sense of calm. Let’s dive into the magic behind this mist.
Aloe Vera, known for its soothing properties, gently calms tired minds. Hibiscus, eases tension and promotes a sense of wellbeing.
Cedarwood, a treasure of nature, brings a grounding and earthy aroma.
Ylang Ylang, promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
Sweet Orange, adds joy to your bedtime routine.
Transform your bedroom into a sanctuary of calmness and relaxation
Rest Your Head Foam
Introducing your ultimate companion for a soothing and relaxing bath experience. This product is designed to calm your mind and prepare you for a restful bedtime.
Free from parabens and SLS, this gentle bubble bath is safe for sensitive skin. It’s made with naturally derived ingredients, including a gentle surfactant from coconut oil fatty acids. Our highest quality Lavender essential oil adds a heavenly scent that calms and relaxes before bedtime. With the added moisturising benefits of Jojoba oil, this bathing foam pampers your skin, leaving it soft and hydrated.
Indulge in the Rest Your Head Foaming Oil, made with care and naturally derived ingredients. Let the soothing Lavender essential oil, coconut oil fatty acids, and Jojoba oil envelop you. Wash away the day and prepare for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Candle Spa
Based in Edenbridge, Kent, the award winning Candle Spa aims to give consumers luxuriously fragranced natural Soy Wax candles and other products which provide an everyday spa feeling of relaxation and enjoyment at home. From its humble beginnings in 2014 and with a desire to replicate the feeling of a spa experience through fragrance and light, Candle Spa produces a range of wellbeing products which includes luxury scented candles, alcohol-free reed diffusers, luxurious hand & body lotions and liquid soaps, detoxifying bath salts with essential oils and more. Our fragrances have been developed in consultation with a number of Spas and Beauty Salons and the tranquility invoked with the choice of fragrances, ensures you feel the enjoyment of a spa experience at home.
Lavender & Black Pepper Bath Salts
What better way to relax and detox than to soak away the day in Candle Spa’s Himalayan Pink Bath Salts with essential oils. Winner of the Editors Choice Award in the Mama & Baby Awards 2020. Our bath products convert your home into your very own private spa. So relax and soothe skin irritations using our Lavender & Black Pepper bath salts with added Epsom and Dead Sea salts, giving a unique mix of magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium - basically, everything needed for healthy skin. This makes these salts great for treating all manner of reactive conditions from eczema to psoriasis.
Your skin is one of your most valuable assets and to help maintain it in peak condition there is a range of luxurious hand & body washes, which are parabens free, SLS free and vegan friendly; cleansing your skin without stripping out its natural oils, all with a long lasting fragrance. Lemongrass is renowned for its muscle-relaxing properties and sleep-inducing effects. It may even help you enjoy longer, uninterrupted sleep once you’ve dozed off. The warm and comforting embrace of ginger adds a cosy touch, promoting a settled feeling perfect for bedtime. Together, these essential oils create an atmosphere that relaxes your mind and body, preparing you for a peaceful and restful night’s sleep.
Lemongrass & Ginger Body Wash
Enjoyed this experience?
How it works:
- Sign up on either a monthly or annual subscription
- Look out for your unique Wellness Credit Code to arrive in your email each month
- Select which box you would like and use your Wellness Credit Code at the checkout
- Choose to either gift the box to yourself or a loved one Want to save up your credits for Christmas or a special occasion?
That’s fine. Credits are valid for 5 years.
Sleep Tight Body Butter
Your ultimate bedtime indulgence for nourished and rejuvenated skin. This luxurious body butter is carefully crafted with key ingredients that work harmoniously to enhance your nighttime skincare routine
At the heart of this decadent body butter is Shea Butter, a deeply moisturizing ingredient known for its rich emollient properties. Packed with vitamins and fatty acids, Shea Butter penetrates the skin, providing intense hydration and restoring its natural suppleness. As you massage the butter into your skin, it creates a protective barrier,
sealing in moisture and leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and deeply nourished.
Cocoa Butter, another star ingredient, adds a velvety touch to this body butter. With its creamy texture and exceptional moisturising abilities, Cocoa Butter melts into your skin, delivering an abundance of hydration. It helps to improve skin elasticity, leaving it
firmer and more resilient. Indulge in the luxurious sensation as the butter glides effortlessly, wrapping your body in a cocoon of silky softness.
To create a soothing and calming experience before bed, we’ve infused this body butter with Lavender Essential Oil. Lavender is renowned for its calming properties, known to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Its gentle and floral aroma fills the air, creating a serene ambiance that helps to ease away the stresses of the day. Let the comforting scent of Lavender envelop your senses, allowing you to unwind and prepare for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Adding a touch of elegance and balance to the formula is Geranium Essential Oil. This delightful oil not only imparts a lovely floral scent
but also helps to rejuvenate and restore the skin’s natural radiance. Geranium Essential Oil promotes a sense of wellbeing, lifting your spirits and enhancing the overall pampering experience.
To protect your skin and ensure long-lasting hydration, we’ve incorporated Carnauba Wax, a natural plant wax with excellent emollient properties. It forms a nourishing barrier, locking in moisture and preventing dryness. Your skin will feel velvety smooth, with a radiant glow that lasts throughout the night.
Immerse yourself in a luxurious and soothing experience as you lavish your skin with this decadent butter. Prepare for a restful night’s sleep, knowing that your skin is ready to wake up refreshed and radiant.
Creating a Carbon Neutral Business
SE-LF partners with Carbon Neutral Britain: planting 30 trees each month, the equivalent to 1.5 acres of reforestation every year
As the devastating effects of climate change continue to worsen, we believe it is increasingly important that every individual, company, organisation, and government plays their part in addressing the global crisis. From the very beginning we have been taking steps to minimise our impact on the environment, and even do good for the planet. We aim to make every decision we take as environmentally minded as possible; whether this be our reusable components, our unlaminated FSC certified card boxes, our biodegradable labels or our non-toxic vegetable inks.
But we also wanted to go one step further and we are proud to announce our partnership with Carbon Neutral Britain to plant 30 trees each
month in sustainable projects both in Britain and around the world. This is equivalent to 1.5 acres of reforestation and results in 60 tonnes of CO2e being removed from the atmosphere each year.
Commitment to carbon neutrality is becoming increasingly important as our planet continues to warm due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2e) emissions. By planting trees and funding carbon offsetting projects, we can remove and prevent further CO2e emissions around the globe.
Planting trees is widely recognised as one of the most sustainable ways to offset carbon emissions. Forest projects absorb CO2, refract the earth’s heat, and have a positive impact on wildlife, ecology, and biodiversity.
Carbon Neutral Britain is committed to spending up to 10% of its budget on carbon offsetting or sustainable treeplanting projects in Britain, for Britain. For example, the Richmondshire Wood project, located in Whashton Wood just outside the Yorkshire Dales national park
“ We believe Carbon Offsetting is the answer to the
climate crisis - as the cheapest and most effective way to make a difference - fast. Through our projects and offsetting initiatives, our aim is to inspire and educate Britain to make a difference”
Carbon Neutral Britain
and around four miles from Richmond, will see 4,000 trees planted to create a broadleaf woodland with panoramic views of Richmondshire and a vital habitat for wildlife. The trees planted in this project will be native species, including Sessile Oak, Alder, Bird Cherry, Rowan, Scots Pine, Hornbeam, and Aspen.
All of Carbon Neutral Britain’s carbon offsetting projects are certified to the highest standards through the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Gold Standard Voluntary Emission Reductions (VER), and Certified Emission Reductions (CER) programmes, ensuring that the measurements and tonnes of CO2e are accurate and verified. To qualify for these standards, all projects must go through a rigorous and public registration and management process, thirdparty audit, and are overseen by the CDM Executive Board, ratified by the Kyoto Protocol. This means that the international carbon credits we use are the exact same credits used by multinational organisations and even countries in their emission reduction schemes.
As individuals, we all have a role to play in tackling the climate crisis. By supporting carbon neutral companies, who are taking active steps to reduce their impact on the planet, we can all make a meaningful difference. And, as we hope
SE-LF demonstrates, it is possible to make environmentally minded decisions at every level of business –from the materials we use to the partnerships we forge – and do our part to create a more sustainable future.
We aren’t content on stopping here though. We are always looking for ways to increase our positive environmental impact, and are committed to exploring new initiatives in the future; so keep an eye on our website, social media platforms and our forthcoming magazine for what comes next.
The Science of Serotonin
Understanding the differences with Dopamine and how you can climb your own “happiness mountain”
Happiness is a feeling that’s universally sought after, but one that can be difficult to define. Simplistically, it can be described as a positive emotion, often accompanied by feelings of pleasure, contentment, and fulfillment. Yet, for something so simple, it can be difficult to achieve, especially when facing challenges in our lives.
The good news is that happiness is NOT just a subjective feeling. Our brain plays a significant role in how we experience happiness. When we
encounter something that makes us happy, our brain releases a cocktail of chemicals that give us that uplifting feeling. These chemicals, including dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins, can influence our overall mood and sense of wellbeing. While dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward, serotonin is linked to a more sustainable sense of happiness and wellbeing. These two neurotransmitting chemicals play a significant role in our mental wellbeing. While dopamine is often associated with feelings of euphoria, pleasure and reward, these are often short-term “hits” and they’re usually followed up by a low. It’s why we often describe dopamine boosting activities as “guilty-pleasures” and their rollercoaster effect on our mental wellbeing can cause them to become addictive. Some examples of these include junk-food, video gaming, alcohol, gambling, pornography and social media.
Serotonin is linked to more long-term, sustainable feelings of happiness, calmness, and wellbeing. It helps to regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy mental state. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression, anxiety, irritability, and even aggression, as well as other mood disorders.
So why don’t we just all focus on serotonin boosting activities rather than dopamine? Well,
“ 70% of your serotonin is made in your gut. What’s going on in your gut is going to affect your mood - anxiety, depression and focus.”
Dr. Frank Lipman
unfortunately, it’s linked to where the two chemicals are produced in the body. Dopamine is produced directly in the brain and it means it is released incredibly quickly. Think of it like happiness rocket fuel, and like a rocket, it can hit highs very quickly. Serotonin on the other hand is produced in your gut (yes, you read that right!) and therefore it takes much longer for the effects of serotonin to be felt on the brain. Think of this like the effort it takes to climb a mountain; it takes time, it isn’t necessarily “enjoyable” along the way, but the rewards at the top are amazing. Also, like being at the top of a mountain, you don’t have to go right back down to the bottom to climb to the next peak, you can remain “high” walking along the ridge from peak to peak; whereas the rocket will always fall back to earth very quickly (often with a bump) and launching rocket after rocket probably isn’t sustainable.
Now, we don’t want this to turn into dopamine bashing. The quick euphoria it can create feels great and we don’t all have the patience or will to turn into serene spiritual monks; but it is crucial to maintain a balance between both chemicals. So, here are some tips to boost your serotonin levels naturally:
Exercise: Regular exercise has been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day to boost your mood and overall wellbeing.
Get outside: Sunlight exposure has been linked to increased serotonin production in the brain. Spend time outdoors during the day to boost your mood and increase your vitamin D levels.
Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help increase serotonin levels in the brain. Include foods like bananas, nuts, and eggs, which are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is essential for serotonin production.
Socialise: Spending time with friends and loved ones can help boost serotonin levels in the brain. This is increased further by physical contact, so don’t be afraid to give hugs.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness, meditation and other relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to increased serotonin levels in the brain.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to boosting serotonin levels, incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help promote a healthy balance of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Find time to climb your own happiness mountain.
Everyday Mindfulness
Discover the Power of Everyday Mindfulness: Simple Practices for Improved Wellbeing.
“ Mindfulness isn’t difficult, we just need to remember to do it.”
Sharon Salzberg
Mindfulness has become a buzzword in recent years as more and more people recognise the benefits of being present and fully engaged in the moment. Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment without judgment. It is a simple concept, but it is not always easy to practise in our fast-paced, distracted world. However, making mindfulness a part of our everyday lives can bring a multitude of benefits to our mental and physical wellbeing. There are numerous benefits to mindfulness, including reduced stress, increased focus and productivity, improved relationships, and better overall health. By practising mindfulness, we learn to become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, which can help us recognise negative patterns and emotions and replace them with positive ones. Mindfulness can also help us to become more compassionate and empathetic towards ourselves and others, leading to more harmonious relationships and a greater sense of community.
One of the easiest ways to introduce mindfulness into our lives is by focusing on the present moment during everyday
tasks. For example, when we are walking to the shops, instead of letting our minds wander or checking our phones, we can pay attention to the physical sensations of our feet touching the ground, the breeze on our skin, and the sounds around us. By fully engaging in the present moment, we can quiet our minds and reduce stress and anxiety.
Another everyday task that can be turned into a mindful practice is our skincare routine. Instead of rushing through the process or thinking about other things, we can focus on the sensations of the water on our skin, the texture and smell of the products we are using, and the gentle movements of our hands. This can turn a mundane task into a sensory experience that promotes relaxation and self-care.
Here are some easy ways to introduce mindfulness into our everyday lives: Take mindful breaks: Set aside a few moments each day to take a mindful break. This can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the sensations in your body.
Practice gratitude: Take a few moments each day to think about what you are grateful for. This can help shift our focus away from negative thoughts and promote a more positive mindset.
Mindful eating: Instead of rushing through meals or eating while distracted, take the time to savour each bite, notice the flavours and textures, and appreciate the nourishment that food provides.
Mindful movement: Incorporate mindful movement practices such as yoga or tai chi into your routine. These practices can help connect the mind and body and promote relaxation and stress reduction. By turning everyday tasks into mindful practices, we can bring a sense of presence and awareness to even the most mundane activities, promoting a greater sense of peace and calm in our lives.
Supporting Others
SE-LF pledges to support the Mental Health Foundation
At SE-LF, our overarching value is “Do Good, Be Good,” which we strive to uphold every day. This commitment drives us to make our products as environmentally friendly as possible, leading us to become Carbon Neutral Certified and plant over 30 trees every month. It also inspired us to create our self-care boxes, which allow people to prioritise their overall happiness and wellbeing.
While our boxes promote mindfulness and mental wellness, we recognize that they are not a solution for mental health issues. In the United Kingdom, mental health issues are the single largest cause of disability, with one in four adults experiencing at least one mental health illness each year.
That’s why we’ve teamed up with Work For Good and the Mental Health Foundation to raise funds to support research and projects focused on protecting people’s mental health. The Mental Health Foundation conducts rigorous research and practical projects to identify what’s most helpful and empower individuals to take care of their mental health. They also work to influence policies and challenge mental health inequalities by supporting communities at higher risk of mental health problems due to social, economic, and environmental circumstances. Through our partnership, we hope to contribute to the important work of the Mental Health Foundation and support initiatives that promote mental wellbeing and reduce mental health disparities. We believe that prevention is better than cure, and by prioritising mental health, we can help create a healthier, happier world for everyone.
At SE-LF, we are committed to doing good and being good, not just for ourselves but for the planet and the people around us. By using this box, you are supporting us in our mission and making a positive impact on the world.
It’s more than recycling It’s reusing
Return your SE-LF box to play your part in helping the planet
To do so:
- Repack your bottles and jars into the box
- Visit www.se-lf.co.uk to request a return
- Visit your local drop-off point (newsagent) and use your QR code to return
No need to print a label at home
Request Your Return
Scan the QR Code or visit
www.se-lf.co.uk
As climate change continues to worsen, we are constantly reminded of the need to reduce our waste and recycle more. While recycling is certainly important, it is not the only solution to our waste problem. In fact, reusing packaging is even more important when it comes to mitigating the impact of climate change. Here’s why.
When we recycle materials, we typically use energy to break them down and turn them into something new. While this is certainly better than throwing them away, it still requires a significant amount of energy and resources. In addition, many materials can only be recycled a certain number of times before they become unusable.
Reusing packaging, on the other hand, eliminates the need to use energy and resources to create something new. It also helps to extend the life of materials, reducing the overall demand for new resources. By reusing components, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.
At SE-LF we have incorporated this into what we do. Once you have finished with your box, pack the aluminium bottles and jars back inside, then visit www.se-lf.co.uk to request a free return. Once back, we clean and sterilise for reuse, reducing the overall demand for new materials. By returning these components, you can make a positive impact on the environment and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
While recycling is certainly important, reusing components is even more critical when it comes to reducing our impact on the environment. By incorporating reusing into our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. So, start reusing today and make a positive impact on the world around you.
Give the gift of Self-care today
Looking for the perfect gift to show your friends, loved ones or colleagues that you care about their wellbeing?
Our collection of boxes are carefully curated to promote self-care, relaxation, and mindfulness. Including luxurious skincare products and tools, as well as guided meditation and mindfulness practises, each item is thoughtfully designed to provide a meaningful and nurturing experience.
Whether you want to help someone unwind after a long day, encourage self-reflection, or simply show your support for their wellbeing, our boxes are a beautiful way to express your care and thoughtfulness.
Give the gift of self-care today: