Here’s How To Avoid London Fashion Week Burnout

London Fashion Week is upon us, which means living out of a suitcase, dashing between venues and eating on the run. It’s all fun and games… until the exhaustion sets in. So how can you avoid that dreaded ‘LFW-burnout’?

Who better to turn to for advice than Psychologist and former model, Elaine Slater. An expert in wellbeing problems, Elaine knows all too well the detrimental effects a busy lifestyle can have on people and it doesn’t get much busier than fashion week.

So take a moment, grab a seat and read Elaine’s top five tips on how to maintain your wellbeing:

1. Be mindful of Sleep Hygiene; ensure your bedroom is quiet, comfortable, ventilated and dark. A darkened room stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for rest, recovery and repair – this promotes quality sleep.

* We recommend packing an eye mask to overcome those not-so-dark hotel rooms.

2. Even a short burst of exercise can increase concentrations of norephinephrine, a neurotransmitter (chemical) that can moderate the brain’s response to stress.

* Why not go for a short run? We love mapmyrun for exploring London’s outdoor spaces – perfect after a long day cooped up in hot venues.

3. Conscious Diaphragmatic Breathing is extremely restorative and a way of maximising the amount of oxygen that goes into the bloodstream. It activates the vagus nerve that comes from the brain and controls the part of the autonomic nervous system known as the parasympathetic nervous system; responsible for healing, repair and renewal of the body. It is a proven way of interrupting the “fight or flight” stress response.

* We advise downloading a meditation app like headspace. The simple guide will prompt you to take time out and breathe deeply

4. Allocate time to Eat Mindfully.  Eat three meals a day preferably at a table in the absence of any other activity. Choose the right portion size, eat slowly, chew properly and savour your meal. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid foods high in refined sugar, caffeine, additives and stimulants.

* Try carrying a water bottle with you at all times. These gorgeous designs from Swell will help you stay hydrated and still look chic.

5. Practice a Digital Detox at least one hour before bedtime. Blue light and electromagnetic radiation from digital devices interrupts the circadian rhythm and melatonin (sleep hormone) production.

* Grab a book or give mindful colouring a try. We love Johanna Basford’s Enchanted Forest: An Inky Quest and Colouring Book.