TOP TEN WELLNESS TIPS
Be true to yourself
We are all different. That means what we think, how we feel, what we want, and how we handle things differ – and that’s okay! Embrace who you are. Recognize your strengths and your limitations, and find ways to work with them to find your path to success.
Take time to enjoy
Set aside time for activities, hobbies and projects that you enjoy. Allow yourself to be spontaneous and creative when you feel like it. Read a book; reflect and write; take a bike ride or a long walk; watch a movie; draw or paint; learn to cook a new (and delicious!) recipe; play with your pets - whatever tickles your fancy.
Notice the here and now
Take a moment and try to ‘be’ in the moment – feel the sun and wind on your face and notice the air you breathe. It’s easy to get caught up in planning for the future or thinking about the past, instead of experiencing the present. Practice mindfulness; focus on being in the here and now. Make an effort to be aware of your inner and outer world.
Take care of your body
Nourish your body and mind to feel good, inside and out. Be active, eat well and get your sleep. Get in the habit of going to bed and waking up at a regular time every day. This will help you feel refreshed, and think more clearly.
Daydream – Yes daydream!!
Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful and tranquil location - a beach, a mountaintop, a field, a quiet forest or a favourite room from your past; breathe slowly and deeply. Allow yourself a few minutes of unfocussed time once a day.
Connect with others and talk
Develop and maintain strong relationships with the people who support you and enrich your life. Share, laugh, and enjoy life together. Reach out to friends and family when you need support. Building connections with others increases our sense of belonging and can help us feel like we are not alone in handling life’s challenges.
Participate, share interests, socialize
Join a club or a group. People who share common interests can help provide you with a sense of belonging. Join a band; a walking group; a dance class; a theatre or choir group; a book or car club.
Exercise
The last thing you want to do when you are not feeling well is exercise, but it is one of the most effective and natural ways to help you feel better! Physical activity improves psychological well-being and can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Joining an exercise group or a gym can also reduce loneliness, since it connects you with people who share a common goal.
Deal with stress
Stress is an inevitable part of life that affects each person differently. Be aware of what triggers stress for you. Once you are able to recognize these triggers you may be able to avoid some of them or be better prepared to handle them when they arise. Also be aware of how you manage your stress. There are healthy and unhealthy ways to cope with stress – find a way that works for you. Importantly, if you are feeling uncomfortable or overwhelmed, reach out to people who can help.
Ask for help
You are not superhuman. Everyone’s life journey has bumps along the way, and handling them on your own can be challenging. When you are feeling tired or overwhelmed, ask for help or support. Talk to those around you or get connected to other resources that can help.
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