Well Being 0
Introduction:
Well-being is important for our happiness, contentment and enjoyment of life. It is the foundation of our relationships. But how do we be well and keep well? What strategies increase a sense of well-being? A report for the New Economic Foundation (UK) states there is evidence that the following five concepts are the key to well-being. These are actions we can take at the individual level. The report cautions that having a variety of strategies within these concepts is important-different things work for different people. Let’s explore the five elements.
Well Being 1
- Connect
With the people around you; with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Strengthen and broaden your social network. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day. Since it may be more difficult to build new connections while we are dealing with the pandemic, this may be a time to strengthen existing connections.
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2. Be Active
In any way that makes you feel good! Walk, run, dance, cycle, practice yoga, garden, etc. etc. the possibilities are limitless. Most importantly, discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
Well Being 3
3. Take Notice
Be curious! Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Whether it is the changing seasons, a beautiful sunset, a great conversation with a friend, savour the moment! Perhaps you will choose to practice mindfulness. Reflecting on experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you.
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4. Keep Learning
During the pandemic many people have taken the opportunity to learn something new. Perhaps you rediscovered something that you were once interested in but put aside because you were too busy. Maybe you will decide to sign up for that online course, learn to play an instrument or try out new recipes. Both formal and informal learning are good. Simply set a challenge you will enjoy achieving. Learning new things is not only fun but will add to your self-confidence!
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5. Give
Giving back to others promotes your own sense of well-being. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming or involve financial commitments. Just do something nice for someone else; thank someone, smile, volunteer your time, join a community group, etc. Seeing yourself, and your happiness, linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and creates connections with the people around you.
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Conclusion:
As you can see, these five elements of well-being link to each other. Giving of your time to a community group will help you be connected to others and in doing this you may reflect/take notice and appreciate the good you see and feel.
The research shows that following these simple concepts will enhance your personal well-being, helping you to feel good, be more optimistic and resilient…and we can all use a little more of that right now!
Information is taken for the report written for the Centre for well-being, nef (the new economics foundation) uk