5 Ways to Wellbeing

Our ongoing support for the 5 Ways to Wellbeing is about encouraging residents to take up something new, or do more of something they already do, because it feels good and it has a positive effect on their mood. We want to encourage people to explore all the opportunities in our borough that can positively impact their wellbeing.

The 5 Ways to Wellbeing is a proven methodology we use to frame the opportunities available. Under the following headings we have provided some information and ideas on how you can engage with the 5 Ways to Wellbeing:

1. Take Notice

How

  • Be curious
  • Catch sight of the beautiful.
  • Remark on the unusual
  • Notice the changing seasons
  • Savour the moment
  • Be aware of the world around you

Why

Studies have shown that being aware of what is taking place in the present directly enhances your well-being and savouring ‘the moment’ can help to reaffirm your life priorities.

Only got 5 mins

Take notice of how you are feeling at this very moment, watch your thoughts and feel the sensations in the body.

2. Keep Learning

How

  • Try something new
  • Rediscover an old interest
  • Sign up for that course
  • Take on a different responsibility at work
  • Learn to play an instrument
  • Set a challenge you’ll enjoy achieving

Why

The practice of setting goals, which is related to adult learning in particular, has been strongly associated with higher levels of wellbeing.

Only got 5 mins

Go online and check outTED for thousands of short, powerful talks delivered by the world’s leading thinkers and doers. Watch one talk on a topic that interests you.

3. Be Active

How

  • Discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness
  • Go for a walk or run or cycle
  • Play a game / Garden / Dance

Why

Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups.

Only got 5 mins

Plank for one minute. Doing this for a minute today will reap huge benefits.

4. Helping Others / Give

How

  • Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger
  • Thank someone
  • Smile at someone
  • Volunteer your time
  • Join a community group

Why

Research into actions for promoting happiness has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period is associated with an increase in wellbeing.

Only got 5 minutes

Show your appreciation for someone by thanking them publicly.

5. Connect

How

  • Connect with the people around you -
  • Family, friends, colleagues and neighbours
  • Connect at home, work, school or in your local community

Why

There is strong evidence that indicates that feeling close to, and valued by, other people is a fundamental human need and one that contributes to functioning well in the world.

Only got 5 minutes

Message a friend. It doesn’t matter what it says, people appreciate it when you think of them.

Use the #5waysbwd

Doing just one of these activities will boost your wellbeing, but doing one or more of these activities each week, is a guaranteed way to feel the maximum benefits.

Got longer than 5 minutes

A range of partner organisations who work with the Council are involved in running wellbeing activities all year round. Please check out their regular programme of activities. Give one a go.

Details are accessible from their websites:

Documents