Health & Wellbeing Newsletter – February 2023

February Health and Wellbeing News – Gratitude

What is Gratitude?

It’s about paying attention to the things and moments we have right now, and not worrying about what we don’t have. We practice gratitude by noticing the positives that exist around us, and by being thankful for things, places and people in our lives.

What is Empathy?

Empathy – have you ever thought about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes?

Empathy and kindness are closely linked. So are empathy and compassion. To be empathetic is to put ourselves in the shoes of others to feel and see what they are. We practice this by being kind towards other people.

How to Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a state of active, open attention on the present. When we are mindful, we carefully observe our thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad. Mindfulness can also be a healthy way to identify and manage hidden emotions that may be causing problems in our personal and professional relationships.

Helpful Podcasts

• The Imperfects (Lots to choose from)
• Braintainment
• The Resilence Project for more resources

How does wellbeing & practicing these skills help our mental health?

Wellbeing isn’t as straightforward as just being happy. Wellbeing looks at lots of different elements that make us complex humans tick. It considers how we, cultivate meaning and good relationships, use our strengths, contribute to a ‘greater’ cause, find pleasure in losing ourselves in things we find challenging and enjoyable.

One way to achieve meaning and purpose is being a part of something greater than yourself.

Wellbeing helps us:

• stay resilient when times get tough
• build social supports and self-efficacy
• emerge from our challenges even stronger, knowing we have the ability to cope with adversity.

Reminder – Active April!

• Rally your troops! Can the hospital beat Josie Black this year? Or will Mortlake edge them out?
• https://www.getactive.vic.gov.au/

What’s On in March

• International Women’s Day (8 March) 

• Neurodiversity Celebration Week (13-19 March)

• Cultural Diversity Week (11-21 March) 

• World Sleep Day! – (17 March)

• National Advance Care Planning Week (20-26 March)