5 Ways to Wellbeing
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In a world that never seems to slow down, it can be difficult to get back to yourself and focus on your own wellbeing. Luckily, there are five evidence-based things that you can do to give your positivity levels a boost and look after your mental health on a regular basis.
Connect with others
Connecting with others can increase your self-worth and create good memories with those you care about. It also allows you to build a support network, where you can be there for other people and they can be there for you.
You could try:
- Phoning a friend for a proper catch-up
- Getting to know your neighbours
- Taking time to ask someone how they really are
Keep active
Exercising releases feel-good chemicals in the brain. Regular movement has been shown to reduce levels of stress, anxiety and depression, as well as improve sleep. It can also be a great way for you to challenge yourself, boost your self-esteem, and maybe meet other active people along the way!
You could try:
- Doing some stretching or yoga in the morning
- Going for a brisk walk
- Joining an online fitness class
Be present
Being ‘in the moment’ and developing awareness for your present surroundings can improve your overall wellbeing. Focusing on the sights, sounds and sensations around you can give you a greater appreciation of the world and provide you with a better understanding of your own body and feelings.
You could try:
- Lighting a scented candle
- Going for a walk without headphones
- Downloading a mindfulness app, like Headspace or Smiling Mind
Learn something new
Challenging yourself to learn something new, whatever it might be, can increase your self-esteem and confidence and give you a renewed sense of purpose. Certain activities or hobbies may also allow you to meet other people and develop new relationships.
You could try:
- Doing some research into an interesting topic
- Signing up for a workshop
- Reading a new book
Give to others
Helping others or just doing something to make them smile can have a huge effect on your mental wellbeing. Not only can it give you a greater feeling of satisfaction and self-worth, it’s also likely that one person’s happiness will spread to others around them, creating a chain reaction of positive vibes!
You could try:
- Doing some volunteering
- Donating to a charity shop or food bank
- Listening to a friend in need
The Mind website has plenty more suggestions of ways to take care of yourself and your wellbeing.
If you’re feeling very low and your mood is stopping you from living life to the full, you might want to speak to someone about it. At 42nd Street, we’re always here to offer support. You can chat with one of our workers online via text by registering for ongoing online support via our online support portal. We also hold weekly drop-in sessions so that you can speak to a worker without an appointment.
We provide a number of face-to-face services too, all of which offer something slightly different depending on what you want to get out of the support. Overall, though, every service provides you with someone who will listen, acknowledge your feelings, and work with you to develop ways of managing your emotions. You can read about our services here.
By: Ruby Guyler
