improving your wellbeing
Ever feel like you’re being pulled in all directions by what society expects from you? Whether it’s pressure from work, family or friends, it can be overwhelming trying to meet everyone’s needs. You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way. Many people find it hard to balance life’s demands and still make time for themselves. But here’s the important thing about self-care: never stop taking care of yourself and your wellbeing.
In today’s busy world, more and more people are dealing with mental health issues like anxiety and depression. When you add financial worries to the mix – like paying bills, managing debt or spending during Christmas – it’s easy to feel like self-care is out of reach. But self-care doesn’t have to cost money or take a lot of time. It’s about finding moments in your day to relax, recharge and take care of your mental and physical wellbeing, even when life feels overwhelming.
Myths about wellbeing
Self-care requires time
Although setting aside dedicated time for self-care is important, even small, everyday actions can contribute to our overall wellbeing. Simple steps like taking a few deep breaths or stretching for a few minutes can have a huge impact on our stress levels and mood.
Self-care is selfish
Self-care is essential for maintaining our physical and mental health. By prioritising our wellbeing, we become better equipped to support and care for others.
Self-care is expensive
Self-care is not about spending money. It’s about prioritising activities that nourish and replenish us. Whether it’s going for a walk, spending time with loved ones or practising mindfulness, self-care can take many forms and doesn’t require a hefty price tag.
What are the simple things I can do to improve my wellbeing?
There are many ways you can help your wellbeing. Here are just five simple ways you can do so:
Acknowledge your feelings
Accepting our feelings is the first step towards self-care. Research suggests that journaling can be a powerful tool in this regard. By putting pen to paper, we can explore our thoughts and emotions in a safe space, encouraging self-awareness and emotional resilience.
Nourish your body and mind
It’s essential to prioritise the wellbeing of both body and mind. Nourishing your body with nutritious meals, engaging in regular exercise and practising relaxation techniques such as grounding can all contribute to a sense of balance in one’s life. Remember, self-care is not selfish. It’s an investment in your overall health and happiness.
Make connections
Human connection is important to our wellbeing, yet in the digital age, we often can feel very lonely. It’s important to develop meaningful relationships with others. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, reaching out to a friend in need or participating in community activities, building connections can provide a sense of belonging and during difficult times.
Embrace nature
Reconnecting with nature is essential for our physical and mental health. Spending time outdoors not only offers a welcome respite from the stresses of daily life but also allows us to reconnect with the natural world and gain perspective on our place within it. Whether it’s going for a hike in the countryside, having a picnic in the park or simply enjoying a breath of fresh air, immersing ourselves in nature can reduce anxiety.
Give back
Whether it’s volunteering your time, donating to a worthy cause or simply giving back to your community, volunteering has numerous benefits for your wellbeing. By contributing to the welfare of others, volunteering can make a positive impact on the world while gaining a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.
“When you have been through it yourself, you understand what people are going through when they come through the door and ask for help. I was one of them.”
Lorna, who volunteers at our Employability Support Project, talks about how helping others ended up helping her as well. Read more about her story here.
Incorporating these self-care practices into your routine can help you navigate the challenges of everyday life with greater resilience, balance and compassion. Remember, self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritising your wellbeing, you can create a life of greater fulfilment, meaning and joy.
support
Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm and 1.30pm), where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
Other support
- NHS Inform has mental health self-help guides for a range of different conditions and situations.
- NHS Fife has virtual and physical wellbeing toolkits available on their website.