As the new year gets underway, now is a great time to re-evaluate and make some small changes that will make a big difference. Whether you have just fifteen minutes or more a day* why not devote some allotted time to your wellbeing ~ you have nothing to lose, and a lot to gain.
*Think you don't have time? Maybe take a lunch break away from your desk, set your alarm a little earlier (press snooze fewer times?) or delay a nightly flop in front of the TV by a few minutes. You'll be glad that you did!
Whether you work in an office or at home, do a desk-based job or something more active, it's important to break the routine of your day. Whilst it may seem like a luxury to take this time out, it has been proven that you return to your work more relaxed, rejuvenated, alert and productive. So make sure your take your lunch break, or switch off on time at the end of the day, and make a little time for you.
The NHS (UK) defines five steps that you can take to improve your wellbeing. We've added some suggestions on how you might start to do these things. You can easily find activities that tick more than one of these wellness boxes at a time!
CONNECT WITH OTHERS
Good relationships help you build a sense of belonging and self-worth, they provide an opportunity to share positive experiences and give and receive emotional support. Face-to-face interactions offer much more value than social media or email ones. Try to;
- Meet someone face-to-face
- Have lunch with a colleague or friend
- Catch up with someone on the phone/via video call
BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE
Being active is not only great for your physical health, evidence also shows it is good for your mental health. Physical activity raises your self-esteem. It creates endorphins that can improve your mood.
- Get outside and go for a walk
- Have a stretch, do some yoga or pilates (lots of free online resources for this!)
- Take an exercise class
LEARN NEW SKILLS
Learning new skills can boost your self-confidence, gives you a sense of purpose and connects you to others. Plus, you will probably have fun too.
Taking a class is an obvious one, but there are lots of different ways to bring learning into your life.
- Read a blog, article or book on a subject that interests you
- Listen to an audiobook or podcast
- Cook something new (could improve your physical health too!)
GIVE TO OTHERS
Research suggests that acts kindness can help improve your mental wellbeing by giving you a sense of purpose, helping you connect with others, creating feelings of self-worth and reward. Small acts of kindness towards other people, or larger ones like volunteering in your local community all count.
- Check-in with someone who is having a tough time
- Show your appreciation
- Complete a random act of kindness
PAY ATTENTION TO THE PRESENT MOMENT
Mindfulness can help you enjoy life more and understand yourself better. It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges.
- Enjoy a meal without distraction
- Take a walk and pay attention to your surroundings
- Complete a mindfulness / meditation / relaxation exercise
All these examples are small things, that require little planning, equipment or time. Simple exercises that you can squeeze into each day. Go on, have a go, your mind (and body!) will thank you! 🤩
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