5 tips for #WorldWellbeingWeek in LSL
As the programme works in Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham, I have come up with 5 tips for people living in these boroughs, addressing the challenges of wellbeing in city areas. These tips have been written based on the guidance from MIND (Mind.org.uk) and with suggestions from team members.
The team has also provided helpful examples for ‘Where to go’ in LSL for every tip!
- Connect with the people around you
Evidence shows that social interaction improves wellbeing. A lot of us have been connecting with people online this last year, others have found it hard to adapt to using new technology. But the benefits of being in a city is that there are always activities and things to do, just make sure you’re following the latest covid-19 guidance and of course with good company.
Where to go: Mosaic Clubhouse (for people we support), Connect and Do and Horniman Museum and Gardens.
2. Let’s get active
Exercise is essential for promoting wellbeing. It’s been important to stay active while working from home but having the time to exercise can be a struggle if we’re travelling to and from work. Walking to work or taking a stroll through a park can be beneficial. If time is against you, doing quick exercises like stretching can make a huge difference. If we’re fortunate enough to really enjoy a type of sport or physical activity, we can feel like we’re having fun, rather than feeling like it’s a real chore.
Where to go: Southwark Park, Crystal Palace Park, Ruskin Park, Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, Burgess Park and Brockwell Lido.
3. Zone in and take notice
It’s very easy in a city to move and think at 100 mph. Instead of thinking about ‘Zone 1-6’ and rushing to get to a tube that comes every 2-3 mins, we should take time out to zone in and be in the present moment. Sometimes we don’t have to go as far as you may think to get away from the fast-paced, city lifestyle.
Where to go: Camp at Sydenham and Dulwich Woods, check out One Tree Hill viewpoint and Vauxhall/Crystal Palace farm.
4. Learn
The practice of setting goals has been strongly associated with higher levels of wellbeing. Why not learn about the rich history of the boroughs Lambeth, Southwark, and Lewisham? You could spend time learning a new skill or delve more into an interest of yours. Having access to free libraries and museums is a big advantage of a city. Plus, in a multicultural city, you can learn from people from all different backgrounds.
Where to go: Cultural archives in Brixton, carnegie libraries in Lambeth and Horniman Museum and Gardens.
5. Give and support others in the local community
Giving and committing acts of kindness can also improve our wellbeing. We can be a part of the community and look at how we can do things collectively to make a difference. Community spirit can go along way for our wellbeing and for bringing about real positive change too.
Where to go: Give to others/volunteer at Brixton Soup Kitchen, Certitude and Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses.