Many of us continue to work from home some of the time and so it’s important that we all take the time to continue to make our health and wellbeing a priority, especially at this time of year.
1. Appreciate the daylight
Natural daylight is the ultimate mood booster. So since the days are shorter, make the most of them by opening your curtains to let the light shine in and venture outdoors to make the most of the natural daylight when you can.
3. Keep active!
On the days where we can appreciate the better weather, try to get some fresh air if you can.
The benefits of walking are well documented. Living Streets have produced a number of tips to encourage us to get at least 20 minutes of walking into each day. Also check out the LiveWell group’s short video on taking a mindful walk, it will change the way you view things the next time you are out and about!
Find some great walking routes on our website or for more inspiration to enjoy time outdoors, check out the the walking section of the Travel Smart webpage.
And if you’re looking to give yourself a new fitness challenge for 2023, why not sign up for a KA Leisure membership – find out more about the staff discount you can receive in the Latest News article.
NAC employees can join now for only £20.30 per month (usually £29.00 per month). This special price is also valid for another member of your household or a partner, friend, neighbour etc who will pay the same discounted rate. If you want to get a head-start on your New Year fitness regime, why not sign up for a membership today and reap the benefits now of all that KA Leisure has to offer!
4. Maintain your routine
Remember to try to maintain your routine and if you are working from home don’t be tempted to work longer hours by skipping lunch time or by logging in over the weekend.
It is still important to keep yourself hydrated, even during the winter months. Make sure you allow sufficient time for sleep, rest and respite between shifts.
Don’t forget to take regular breaks for tea, coffee and water or to stretch your legs and make sure that you take a lunch break for at least half an hour each working day. Being well-rested will improve your concentration and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
5. Join the LiveWell Group
LiveWell is North Ayrshire Council’s Healthy Working Lives programme. The aim of LiveWell is to promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle to the entire Council workforce, empowering you to make informed choices about your own health and wellbeing.
Join the NAC LiveWell Facebook group for more health and wellbeing initiatives and advice or visit the LiveWell Sharepoint page.
6. Look after your mental health
Your mental health and wellbeing is just as important as your physical health.
The NHS have shared a useful article 5 steps to mental wellbeing and the BeWell section of the LiveWell webpage on Connects also recognises the wide range of topics that impact on wellbeing including information on Mental Health, Wellbeing and Mindfulness.
7. Make self-care a priority
When our mood is low, self-care can often go on the back burner, but try sticking with it. Simple tasks such as making your bed for example shows that you care about yourself and sets your intention for the day ahead.
Other tasks that can have a big impact on your mood include keeping your living and workspace tidy, switching off digital devices and reading a good book, taking pride in your appearance and cooking comforting, healthy meals for yourself.
8. If you’re worried about the Cost-Of-Living crisis, support is available
Energy bills are a big worry for all of us this winter. The Council is urging anyone looking to lower their energy bills to either call the freephone number on 0808 808 2282 or visit the new Cost-of-Living support webpage at: www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/CostOfLiving.
The website has sections on energy, benefits, food and clothing, health and wellbeing. We have also created an Energy Efficiency Tips article with more useful advice on what you can do at home to lower your energy bills.
Remember, the Council also has a team of Wellbeing Warriors on hand to provide a listening ear, offer support and signpost you to relevant resources available and the Mental Health Foundation website has a range of content for looking after your mental health, as does the NHS website.
For more tips on looking after your health and wellbeing all year round, visit the LiveWell webpage.
Be kind to yourself this winter and consider getting in touch with your GP who will be able to give you practical advice and help if you are struggling with your mental health.
