Create a routine that works for you. If you are too busy for the gym you could try incorporating exercise in your daily routine. You could do this by taking the stairs, exercising whilst watching TV, parking further away, watching YouTube fitness tutorials, walking the dog.

As well as exercising the body it is equally important to exercise the mind. Whether it’s writing, painting, drawing or arts and crafts. You could also complete a crossword/ word search/ whilst on your lunch break. Dr Jessica Taylor (FRSA, PhD) is the founder and owner of VictimFocus, the VictimFocus Blog and The VictimFocus Academy. VictimFocus is her independent business providing research, consultancy, writing and speaking in forensic psychology, feminism and mental health. 

Exercise can seem impossible when you’re having a tough time, but research has proven that exercise can help improve your mood, energy levels and promote better sleep. Try not to beat yourself up if you aren’t in the right frame of mind to exercise, it’s important to find balance. You could try starting off with brain exercises and then incorporating physical activity into your routine once you feel comfortable doing so.

Free self-development course - Caring for yourself after sexual violence: Written and Presented by Dr Jessica Taylor - Dr Jessica Taylor (FRSA, PhD) is the founder and owner of VictimFocus, the VictimFocus Blog and The VictimFocus Academy. VictimFocus is her independent business providing research, consultancy, writing and speaking in forensic psychology, feminism and mental health. 

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