Positive emotional wellbeing: The basics

Here is a reminder of the day-to-day basics that can support positive wellbeing. It’s nothing ground breaking and it’s nothing you haven’t heard before, but it’s often these foundations that get forgotten in a crisis:


Look after your physical health: the mind-body connection is real.

Get your routine down. Routines bring a sense of normality and predictability in times of chaos and support healthy habits.

Aim for a range of activities in your week. The best variety will include activities that are good for:
  • Your body (healthy meals, exercise)
  • Your emotional health (mindfulness, relaxation, therapy) 
  • A sense of enjoyment and fun (interests, hobbies)
  • Connection with others (conversations with friends, community activities)
  • Mastery and productivity (learning, developing, improving skills)
A healthy balance is when we have enough, or even excess, coping resources to help us manage the demands of life. If your balance is off, try decreasing the demands on you and/or increasing helpful strategies and resources. Which leads me to…
Don’t be afraid to lower your expectations or aspirations when things are tough. Is it really the end of the world if the hoovering doesn’t get done for a few days/weeks? Prioritise your tasks and remember no one is judging you, but you.

Use help available. There is a wealth of websites, apps, self-help books (ask me for the good ones), support groups, helplines, charitable organisations etc. out there - definitely something for everyone.

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