Five Ways to Winter Wellbeing

Posted on Thursday, 11 July 2024 under Wellness

It's July - the middle of winter - and some people can feel emotionally down because of ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder' (SAD).

The Five Ways to Wellbeing give us five simple things we can do as part of our daily lives – at work and at home. They help us build resilience, boost our wellbeing, and lower our risk of developing mental health issues.

Connect
Be Active
Keep Learning
Give
Take Notice

They help people take care of their mental health and wellbeing. Regularly practising the Five Ways is beneficial for everyone – whether you have a mental health concern or not.

CONNECT:

Stay in touch with your support network - whether that's family or friends or a support service, such as Vitae.

Eat lunch with colleagues
Find ways to collaborate
Plan a social event at work
Thank someone or give them a values card

GIVE

Do something kind for others - buying presents is not the only way to give this winter. Get in touch with old friends and ask how they're doings. Share snacks with your neighbours. Give a compliment to a stranger.

Thank someone
Make someone a cup of tea
Do the dishes for someone
Perform a random act of kindness for a colleague, friend or even a stranger

TAKE NOTICE

Take time to appreciate the things you like - your favourite song, nature, the things you're grateful for.

Listen to your favourite music
Take a break from digital devices
Single-task – do one thing at a time
Office staff: keep a beautiful object near your desk

KEEP LEARNING

Engage your mind with a learning activity - why not cosy up with your favourite book?

Take a course
Set a goal and work towards it
Take on a new task or help someone
Listen to a podcast or read a journal article

BE ACTIVE

Activity releases happiness chemicals, so if you're feeling a bit down - move your body!

Fit in time for a gentle stroll
Join a sports team
For those at desks break up long periods of sitting
Take a yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi class