M is for Meditation and Mindfulness: do one thing at a time. Fully focus on the present moment. If your mind wanders, return gently to your breathing and the activity — whether sitting, dancing, knitting, painting, running, gardening, reading, or socialising.

A is for Attitude and Awareness: bring warmth, compassion and vitality into your interactions with others — and yourself. Turn that warmth towards your own self. Be loving and gentle, and challenge the critical repetitive chatter of the mind. Develop awareness that thoughts are largely misleading and, with practice, they can be changed.

N is for nutrition: move towards a diet of fresh, unprocessed foods. Healthy food brings life to every cell.

E is for Exercise: find a form of exercise that resonates and embrace the beauty and rhythm of movement.

Nurture yourself in whatever way adds colour and movement to life. Your body and mind will sing with happiness.

Dianne Lee is a registered nurse (also a registered psychologist and marriage celebrant). Dianne has worked for 46 years in public and private hospitals and clinics, community health, universities, criminal justice and forensic mental health settings.