Put a spring in your step
Don’t hibernate during the cold months – taking on these wellbeing tips will help you bounce through winter DAISY FOX
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Family Time Correspondent
WITH cold weather and dark evenings, it’s tempting to hibernate under a blanket at this time of year.
While snuggling down on the sofa with a good book is definitely on my to-do list, I also know that I’m much happier if I’ve taken a walk in the fresh air first.
With a bit of planning, it’s easy to add new activities to your week, which in turn will raise your happiness levels.
The Five Ways to Wellbeing, developed as a result of research by the New Economics Foundation, are Connect, Keep Learning, Give, Take Notice and Be Active. Experts say these five things can give our mental health a boost at any age.
■ Connecting with others is one of the easiest ways to stay happy. Why not start a conversation with your friends and family or help a neighbour?
■ Keep Learning by visiting a museum or art gallery, trying out a musical instrument or doing a word search.
■ Giving helps us to think of others. You could hold a door open for someone, give someone you love a hug or send your old toys to a charity shop.
■ Take Notice of your surroundings. Paint or draw a picture of what you’ve seen today, think about how you are feeling or listen to the sounds of nature such as the wind and rain.
■ Being Active allows children to have a better outlook on life by building confidence, manag- ing anxiety and depression and increasing self-esteem and cognitive skills. It’s also a great way to keep warm! Here are some things to try: GET DANCING: Put on your favourite tunes and dance up a storm in your bedroom. Why not ask a friend or family member to join you? You’ll have a good laugh, too.
ANIMAL MAGIC: Pets are wonderful for boosting your happiness levels. Combine your pet-time with some fresh air by taking a walk with your dog. If you don’t have one maybe you could borrow one from a friend or neighbour.
JOIN A SPORTS TEAM: Whether you love basketball, football or gymnastics, there are plenty of sports clubs out there that you can join. Most first sessions are free, to give you a taster of what’s involved.
PLAY A GAME: Invite your friends or family to join in with a game of catch or learn to hula hoop or juggle. Make your own beanbags to practice with (see this week’s craft, above). You could make up your own sport or hold a relay race.
WALK OR CYCLE: Try travelling to school or the shops on foot or on a bike. Walking and cycling is great for fitness and for the planet as it means less harmful emissions.
HELP IN THE GARDEN: With spring around the corner there is plenty to do in the garden at the moment. Gardening is great exercise and being among wildlife and plants will help you connect with nature and feel more positive. Why not sow some seeds and care for them as they grow?
■ For more ideas see bbc.co.uk/teach/ moodboosters