The 5 Ways to Wellbeing is an evidenced base, self management tool which can increase your mental wellbeing. The research, which led to the discovery, was commissioned by the Government in 2008 and carried out by the New Economic Foundation: www.neweconomics.org
The 5 Ways to Wellbeing were designed as the mental health equivalent to the dietary advice to have ‘5 a Day’ fruit and vegetables for physical health. All these 5 ways are easily available, achievable and applicable to anyone’s life regardless of their circumstances.
An easy way to remember to remember the Five Ways to Wellbeing is to use the mnemonic CLANG (think – rings a bell) Connect, Learn, Active, Notice, Give.
Many of us will already be doing some of the 5 Ways, without even being aware of it and this may come across as common sense. However common sense is not necessarily common practice and choosing to change our habits can be hard work.
However an easy way to include 5 Ways to Wellbeing as part of your lifestyle is to try Circle Dancing. This type of dancing is sociable so it is easy to connect with others and does not require a partner. Learning the steps is part of circle dancing and naturally includes being active. Some of the dances are reflective and meditative which is part of noticing and by taking part in Circle dancing we are giving to ourselves and to the other dancers. It is a wonderful way to increase your mental wellbeing and get fit.
If you are interested in trying Circle Dancing contact 07913127724 (Sandi Tatam) who will be happy to give you details of forthcoming events, including the next event on Saturday May 6th 2017 at Llanellen Village Hall, Llanellen 2.00pm – 4.00pm. Tickets are £5 (pay at the door) and include refreshments. The programme will include accessible dances to authentic music from Greece, Israel, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Ireland, Romania and England. They will be taught by Hilary and Tony Jay, who for many years ran the successful Abergavenny Circle Dance group, before they moved from the area.
Sandi Tatam
