At Link Age Southwark we have been looking at a programme called the Five Ways to Wellbeing as a way of promoting wellbeing during these restricted times. Just like getting your five daily portions of fruit and vegetables to improve your physical health, getting your daily dose of the Five Ways to Wellbeing will promote your mental health. 

The Five Ways to Wellbeing were developed by the New Economics Foundation, who conducted research into key elements that contribute to our wellbeing and came up with the five simple steps detailed below. At a time when we are all social distancing and many people are staying home, it is particularly important that we look after our mental wellbeing. Trying some of the ideas below can help. 

1. Be Active - Go for a walk, jog or run. Step outside. Cycle. Do some gardening. Dance. Do some chair-based exercise. Join one of our online exercise groups! Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level or mobility and fitness. 
2. Connect - Connect with the people around you by phone, video call, email, letter, or face-to-face. Chat with your neighbours. Get in touch with someone you haven't heard from in a while, they might be glad of your call too! Or we have a lovely team of volunteer befrienders who would be happy to call or visit you. 
3. Take Notice - Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment. Watch a nature or arts programme on the TV, or listen to one on the radio. Reflecting on your experiences can help you appreciate what matters to you. 
4. Keep Learning - Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Set a challenge that you will enjoy achieving. Read a book, or research something you've always wondered about. Learning new things will make you more confident as well as being fun.
5. Give - Do something nice for a friend or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Acts of kindness can be rewarding and can create connections with the people around you. 

We hope this inspires you!  

29/10/2020