Listen carefully because Granny does know best

THE “traditional” granny probably doesn’t exist nowadays.

But for the sake of this list, think old-school, “grew up in the 1930s/40s/50s” granny — because we could learn a lot from them when it comes to everyday wellbeing.

Long before Goop-isms, fitspo and #healthgoals were remotely even a thing, people have been practising wellbeing-enhancing habits, just often in simpler, quieter ways.

This isn’t a nostalgia-fest, however.

These women endured world wars and rationing, had far less freedom, healthcare was less advanced, mental health was brushed under the carpet and it was widely believed that smoking was good for you.

But when it comes to self-care and keeping stress in check, Granny had a few useful tricks up her sleeve that we could all still benefit from today . . .

1 Make photo albums

We take more photos than ever, but it’s so easy to upload them then forget about them.

Before digital cameras, you had to get your photos printed.

Seeing how they turned out was half the fun, then you’d flip through the albums, reliving those moments.

2 Have actual conversations

Sure, smartphones mean we’re all constantly connected, yet rates of loneliness and mental-health problems like depression are on the up.

Having hundreds of followers on social media doesn’t mean we’re necessarily benefiting from meaningful interaction.

Text chat has its place, but don’t overlook the importance of proper chats and meet-ups.

3 Take more baths

It didn’t actually become common for UK homes to have fitted bathrooms until the 1960s, and even then, many didn’t have showers.

Rationing bathwater aside, a good soak in the tub is an easy way to hit “pause” and let those everyday stresses unravel.

Treat your skin to some TLC with some mineral-packed bath salts or oil at the same time. You’ll probably have a much better sleep afterwards, too.

4 Embrace housework

Thankfully, we’ve moved on from the days when women’s destinies didn’t extend far from a mop and bucket.

But if we’re honest, a morning spent getting the kitchen in order, or sprucing up the lounge, can actually feel pretty rewarding.

Maybe it’s because a calm environment makes for a calm mind. Maybe it’s because simple tasks can be relaxing.

Maybe it’s because we just feel more comfortable when we’ve got things under control.

5 Learn to sew

It’s no longer essential to learn skills like sewing. But while Granny probably learned to sew for necessity, some people take up sewing and swear by it for keeping them sane.