The Foresight’s Mental Capital and Wellbeing Project have developed the ‘Five ways to Wellbeing’ which are a set of evidenced–based actions, from worldwide research, that can help us all improve our wellbeing. This is great for us adults to implement, as families together or even empower our children to do them.
1. Connect.
As human beings we are social creatures, so keeping connected plays an important part in our wellbeing. It provides us with a support network, reduces stress and helps build a sense of belonging and self-worth. Try arranging a fixed time to spend together as a family such as eating dinner together or playing a game. Yet, now more than ever we use technology to maintain our relationships. However, disconnecting from the screen is also as important. A ‘digital curfew’ of one- or two-hours before bed will help your child fall asleep faster and improve their sleep quality and wellbeing.
2. Be active.
Did you know that getting even just a bit more active on a regular basis can have a positive effect on our mood? Why not try a 10 minute walk, a game of frisbee or challenge someone to a game of swing ball. Anything which gets you moving! Personally, I love putting on one of my favourite songs and dancing around the house like no-one is watching. The knock–on effect is that you might sleep better and feel less stressed or anxious because exercise releases the ‘happy’ hormone – Endorphins. Sounds like a win win to me!
3. Take notice.
Family life can be hectic but paying attention to the present moment can improve your mental wellbeing. Make space in the day with your child to go through all your senses – what can you see, smell, feel, hear and touch. This only takes 1 minute and can be done on a walk to school, in the car, when eating dinner or anytime. Taking notice also includes your thoughts and feelings. Create an opportunity in the day that opens up a safe space to listen to how your child is feeling and their concerns.
4. Give.
Just one simple act of giving can help to lift your spirits. As a family, it is a great way of helping you all feel connected amongst yourselves and with the wider community. You can try making cards, as a family, for friends who are isolating or ill. You could consider giving up one of your birthdays and fundraising for a charity of your choice. You can also role model these behaviours and encourage your children to do one small thing a week. Other ideas can be simply smiling at a stranger or volunteering your time at a food bank or a care home. You can even make a chart and see who gives more in a week and see which family member wins! The more you give, the better your overall wellbeing.
5. Keep learning.
After lockdown, you may feel that you have exhausted all the new skills you could want to learn (banana bread, hairdressing and Tik-Tok) but there are lots of ways to bring learning into your family’s life. Set challenges for your families, work on puzzles together or try different recipes each month (we have so many yummy recipes to try out). Maybe even take some time today to continue reading about mental health and talking to your family about it. Learning new skills can help you and your family’s self-esteem and sense of purpose while helping you to connect with others.
