5 Steps to Mental Well-being
Evidence suggests there are 5 steps we can all take to improve our mental well-being, and The Sharpham Trust can help with each of them. If you give them a try, you may feel happier, more positive and able to get the most from life.
1. Connect
Connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships. Our volunteering programme offers you a great chance to do this, or you could organise a group outing to one of our events
2. Be active
You don't have to go to the gym. Take a walk, get out in nature or play a game of football. Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life. Again, volunteering at Sharpham is a lovely way of participating in outdoor activity. Or consider one of our walking or yoga retreats.
3. Keep learning
Learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence. Lots of our nature and wild food events encourage you to learn new skills. Or join one of our mindfulness courses
4. Give to others
Even the smallest act can count, whether it's a smile, a thank you or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new social networks. You can donate to Sharpham here, helping those on low income to come on retreat with us. Or learn how to volunteer at Sharpham here.
5. Be mindful
Be more aware of the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you. Some people call this awareness "mindfulness". It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. We offer retreats and courses for people who are absolute beginners at meditation, through to those who have a deep practice. We also have lots of audio meditations that you can play and download here
Reference: with thanks to the NHS Moodzone
