Bryony Deery is back on the blog today, this time telling us all about her top 5 wellness practices that actually work.
From blog posts, to TSC newsletter features (sign up here) to 2 x podcast episodes on The HIM & HER Show and launching her own podcast, Beyond The Mat, with Dear Media, we just can’t get enough of Bryony.
She’s gorgeous inside and out, has such a calming energy and voice, PLUS, her Pilates classes are super effective and great for beginners too. On top of all of that, she has such a wild story about a car accident, arthritis and anxiety, which is why getting her top 5 wellness practices that actually work is something to pay attention to. For more on Bryony’s story, be sure to listen to her first appearance on The HIM & HER Show.
With that, let’s get right into Bryony’s tips.
Top 5 Wellness Practices That Make All The Difference
VISUALISATION
I am not such a believer in the trend of manifesting by simply putting your thoughts out there and things will come to you, but I am however a really big believer in the power of visualisation. To anyone who hasn’t tried it yet, definitely give it a go. It’s amazing what happens when you focus on the best version of yourself.
Sit or lay down in a calm environment, close your eyes and visualise what you want to achieve. The key to this practise is getting really clear on your why to begin with and getting really detailed in your visual practice. Once I have finished my meditation I like to write it down and take the time to really picture what the build up, the moment itself and the aftermath looks and feels like.
You can also create vision boards alongside this which is an effective way to remind yourself of exactly what you are working towards. I find just before bed is a great time, or first thing in the morning with a matcha. The word manifesting and visualising can be often misused or thrown around, but if you follow steps every day to get closer to your goals you can really train yourself to think up and unlock your full potential.
HEALING POWERS OF INFRARED SAUNAS AND COLD THERAPY
One of my biggest life changing and healing rituals has been hot and cold therapy. I have suffered with arthritis since I was 18 and at one point couldn’t tie my hair up and now, I have no signs or symptoms. I know it’s difficult for some people to access saunas and ice baths, but even sauna blankets, a hot Epsom salt bath and cold showers can have positive effects to your health and wellbeing.
For me, incorporating this, with my specific method of classical and contemporary Pilates, into my daily routine has changed my mindset, changed my body and changed my life. I’ve gone from dealing with debilitating pain to living a life with no visible symptoms whatsoever, it’s truly incredible.
HIGH QUALITY MEAT & FERMENTED DAIRY
Over the years my diet has been predominantly plant-based with the addition of fish. However, this year I have started to include high quality meat from our local butchers, butter, Greek yogurt and kefir into my diet and I have seen a big improvement in my energy, my muscle mass, my recovery and my gut health. I also no longer feel bloated and my body feels much tighter and stronger. I am always aware of ensuring I include protein, fats, fibre and carbs in every meal.
THINK DAYS
Make space in your work schedule for Think Days (this is what I call them!). They’re days I block out and keep free from meetings, calls or any commitments so it gives me space to focus on those smaller to dos, or to develop an idea I’ve had but haven’t had the chance to sit down and give it meaningful time. It has revolutionised the way I work and really encouraged my creativity. I love my Think Days.
CREATE A WELNESS ROUTINE THAT IS THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU
My morning matcha ritual and sitting in silence before my boyfriend and our dog wakes up is a scared time for me. I like to sit and write and to visualise my day ahead, this really gets me into the zone and it’s the peace and stillness that I love. I then love to have my morning shake before I walk and do a workout from my app. This feels good for me as the mornings are where I thrive, but you might find you’re more productive and inspired in the evenings.
Quieten all the noise that social media tells us we should be doing and just do YOU! One thing I will say is once you have found a routine that works for you stick to it, it will have such an effect on your confidence and self-worth.
We have so many launches and exciting newness coming to the app this side of Christmas and I’m so excited. We love thinking of new ways to motivate and inspire people to stay consistent with their health and wellness routines. We will see you on and beyond the mat!
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Be sure to follow Bryony on all her IG channels for a look into her daily life @bryonydeery, exciting newness coming to the app @pilatesbybryony, and new episodes of her podcast @beyondthemat. And if you’re interesting in starting Pilates, check out her first blog post on how to get started with Pilates.
Bryony is offering all our readers a 30 day free trial with code SKINNY30. Lauryn loves the 20 minute sideline series and if you’re short on time, you have to try the standing countertop workouts.
x, The Skinny Confidential team
+ Why Lauryn always schedules thinking time.
++ Find out why Bryony loves our Mint Roller.