Keeping calm and contented

Wellbeing is more than just activity, although that is certainly part of it. The definition of the word wellbeing in the Collins Dictionary is “the condition of being contented, healthy, or successful”. Understanding this helps us to understand how to look after our wellbeing.

At Active Fenland, although our main focus is on activity, we also know how important it is to stay mentally healthy.

Activity can definitely help our mental health, especially at the moment when many of us might be stuck in our own homes working, looking after children or shielding – getting outside or moving our bodies can feel like a great mood boost and release a lot of stress that may have built up throughout the day.

If you’ve had a busy day on your feet, yoga or walking can be a great way to unwind and give your mind some space. Check out our Active Fenland YouTube channel for lots of inspiration!

Getting outside in nature is great medicine for our mental health too. Many people may have watched the BBC programme Springwatch which promotes and explains the benefits
nature brings to us as humans.

Maybe you can try searching for nature in your local park, recreation ground or field. In the Fens, we’re never very far away from nature so take this opportunity to go in search of different birds, insects and animals. Try to identify them even.

Springwatch have lots of resources on their website: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b007qgm3

I’m sure we’re all also aware that food contributes to our health; what we eat and how much we eat. There can be a lot of confusion regarding what we should be eating and some of this can be negative towards our health, especially many diet plans.

It’s important to gain information from trustworthy sources such as the NHS: www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/ , Change4Life (great for families!) – www.nhs.uk/change4life and for more in-depth information the British Nutrition Foundation – www.nutrition.org.uk/healthyliving/healthydiet/eatwellvideo.html

When it comes to food it’s important to remember a few simple points-

• Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day;

• Pick high fibre carbohydrates where possible (wholemeal bread and pasta);

• Make sure you have some protein every day (beans and pulses, lean meat, eggs);

• Drink plenty of fluids, six-eight glasses (not sugary drinks, but tea and coffee does count!);

• Balance – it’s okay to have treats.

It really all comes down to balance. For more information, please visit the websites mentioned.

Focussing on wellbeing doesn’t have to be a chore, making new meals is fun, exercise makes you feel good but making time for things you enjoy is also important.

Whether that’s simply a hot bath and a book or a phone call with a friend or relative, it’s important to make time for these things too. If you would like to
access to Active Fenland’s copy of the 30 Day Wellbeing Challenge which is great for families, then please contact us via email: activefenlandbooking@fenland.gov.uk

Stay safe, keep moving.