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:
- Canalside Activity Centre
- Kooth
- BWD Carers Service
- BwD Adult learning Service
- BwD Libraries Service
- Blackburn Foodbank
- Lancashire Mind
- BwD Age UK
- Brook Advisory Centre
- Change Grow Live
- BwD’s Wellbeing Service
- The Bureau Centre for the Arts
- Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
- IMO Charity
- BwD’s Leisure Centres
- Sue Jeffries Garden Advice and Training
- Refresh
- Corporation Park Supporters’ Group
- Togetherall
- Motivate
- Blackburn with Darwen Local Offer
- Blackburn Rovers Community Trust