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| news > nef 'five-a-day' to well-being in major new government report 22/10/08 | |
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nef 'five-a-day' to well-being in major new government report nef's centre for well-being has developed a set of five evidence-based actions that, if practised regularly, can improve personal well-being. In the midst of the credit crunch, growing economic uncertainty and accelerating climate change, the recommended actions, based on extensive research compiled by nef for the Government’s Foresight project on Mental Capital and Well-being, show that well-being does not depend on spending money or consuming more. With the economy in freefall, people are understandably worried about what the future might bring. But evidence from the science of well-being suggests that once basic needs are met, stepping off the consumer treadmill, and taking time to develop connections with the world and people around us will lead to happier, more fulfilled lives. The good news is that there are plenty of things we can all do to improve our well-being which don’t cost money, or the earth. Nic Marks, founder of the centre for well-being at nef, said, “The ‘five ways to wellbeing’ are rooted in a wealth of evidence, and show that there are simple, positive actions that people can take to improve their well-being. For too long we’ve measured the health of the nation by how much we are consuming rather than the things that really matter, which is how things are really going for people. Building social networks and investing in our time and effort into things that we can do for ourselves are just as important, if not more so, when times are hard” nef's ‘Five ways to well-being’:
With the people around you. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.
Go for a walk or run. Step outside. Cycle. Play a game. Garden. Dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity you enjoy; one that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are on a train, eating lunch or talking to friends. Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you.
Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that course. Take on a different responsibility at work. Fix a bike. Learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving. Learning new things will make you more confident, as well as being fun to do.
Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Look out, as well as in. Seeing yourself, and your happiness, linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and will create connections with the people around you.
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