Wellbeing

Five steps to wellbeing

During these uncertain times, it is normal to face challenges to both our mental and physical health.

There are five key areas of wellbeing:

Connecting with other people
Keeping active
Taking notice
Learn
Give

Connecting with other people

Whilst it is important to physically distance now, there are other ways in which we can effectively communicate – social media, phone calls, video calls, and writing to one another.

These are all ways to reduce the loneliness that can arise from social isolation. Ensure regular contact is established with loved ones and work colleagues daily.

Keeping active

Regular movement and physical activity are associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety.

Try to continue with work routines as much as you can and incorporate other activities in your spare time. These could include new or existing hobbies, arts and crafts, online exercise or any other meaningful activities.

Ensuring you maintain a routine is important, including waking up, showering, eating healthily.

Taking notice

For some of us, life in lockdown can seem almost too busy with friends and family using lots of new methods to stay in touch.

This can feel overwhelming, so take the time to notice of your surroundings:

Focus on your five senses
Notice your environment
What can you see, smell, taste and feel?

Learn

Continued learning can enhance our sense of wellbeing and encourages goal setting and a sense of achievement.

Read books, complete crosswords, research new things, undertake DIY, or even a new hobby.

Give

If you have spare time, think about giving. Check in with friends, family members, or neighbours.

Volunteer in the local community to help those around you.

Try to implement some aspect of these five ways to wellbeing in your daily life and see how it makes you feel!

Stay well

Whatever you are doing, remember to take the recommended health advice to stay well physically.

Go to trusted websites for advice such as GOV.UK and NHS.UK on how to reduce transmission and protect the vulnerable.

For more ideas, visit Mental Health Matters’ guide to Mental wellbeing while staying at home.

Healthy Minds Bucks