We’re encouraged to eat at least five fruit and vegetables daily to improve our physical health, but what about our mental health? The concept of “Five Ways to Wellbeing” was developed by the New Economics Foundation and is a great way to look after our mental wellbeing! What even is wellbeing and why is it so important? Wellbeing is a combination of feeling good and functioning well! It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health which directly impacts our quality of life as well as happiness and productivity. For those of us who have busy lives, these 5 Ways of Wellbeing offer some simple steps that you can do every single day.
Here is an overview of the five ways:
Connect: Build meaningful relationships for emotional support and belonging.
Get active: Enhance physical and mental health through regular exercise.
Take notice: Practice mindfulness to reduce stress and appreciate life.
Learn: Gain new skills and knowledge to boost confidence and opportunities.
Give: Experience fulfilment by helping others and strengthening community bonds.
Imagine the warmth of a heartfelt conversation and the comfort of knowing someone cares. The connect aspect of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing is exactly that! Connecting with people helps to build a sense of belonging and self-worth as well as enriching our lives. There are many different ways of connecting with people, online through social media or offline through meetings, or even letters. Connecting can be done in whatever way you’d like in small or big groups. To connect you could try to speak to new people and take time to get to know them, this will open doors to meaningful connections. Simple actions like having a conversation sharing your day, joining a community group, or sharing a meal can contribute significantly to overall well-being. So, take a moment to connect with others – it’s a small step that can make a big difference!
Physical activity is for everyone – not just the gym enthusiasts! The second aspect is getting active! Physical activity releases endorphins which are the body’s natural feel-good chemical. This is key to reducing stress and anxiety and improving wellbeing overall. Getting active is key to wellbeing, whether it is a brisk walk in the park, a yoga session with friends, or even a TikTok dance party in your living room! So, get your body moving and find an activity you love, and you’ll see the incredible impact on your wellbeing.
Taking notice of the little things in life will do wonders for your wellbeing. It encourages us to pause and truly experience the world around us and be aware of how we are feeling. Taking notice can mean being mindful of your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings. Appreciating a stunning sunset, savouring the taste of your favourite meal, or even simply taking a few deep breaths will make your life richer and more fulfilling! Try writing down three things you feel grateful for, and this small act of mindfulness can enhance your wellbeing and reduce stress and anxiety.
Learning isn’t always sitting at a desk or listening to someone for hours, it can be made fun! Learning things will boost your confidence as well as sense of achievement! The feeling of learning will improve your self-esteem and allow you to feel more productive and in control.. You could sign up for a class, read a new book, or even research something you’ve always wondered about! Whether you’re mastering a new recipe, exploring a foreign language, or discovering a hidden talent, the journey of learning enriches your life and opens up new possibilities.
By giving, we not only contribute to others’ happiness but also enhance our own wellbeing, creating a cycle of kindness and connection that enriches everyone’s lives. There is evidence for this too! Find your way to give back to nature and society, and it will feel rewarding. You could volunteer your time for a cause you care about (hint hint Bradford District and Craven Mind), offer a helping hand to an elderly neighbour or a stranger on the street! Anything big or small can create a ripple effect of positivity!
Why not try one way of wellbeing a day, try involving a friend too, and don’t forget to tag us (@MindinBradford) in any of your Five Ways to Wellbeing!
Posted on: 4th July 2024
Hello, my name is Karen and I’m a trustee here at Bradford District and Craven Mind. I became a trustee last year, you might want to know why I decided to do that. Well, it’s quite simple, I felt that I wanted to give something back and get involved in something beyond my day job.
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