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Finding the five ways to wellbeing

We recently asked one of Canopi’s therapists, “If you could give just one piece of advice for better mental health, what would it be?” and their answer was “the five ways to wellbeing.”

Looking after your mental health is one of the most important things you can do, and even small steps can make a big difference.

Research shows there are just five simple steps you can build into everyday life to improve your mood and help you enjoy the things that matter most.

These steps, known as the “The five ways to wellbeing”, were developed by the New Economics Foundation and have been shown to have real, positive effects on mental health and overall wellbeing.

So, what exactly are these five steps and how can you start putting them into practice?

Connect

Social connection matters and it can be as simple as catching up with someone over the phone or in person.

Be active

This doesn’t have to be a strenuous activity, just going for a gentle walk can improve our mood. Activities often also connect us with others.

Take notice

Paying more attention to the present moment (through mindfulness techniques) is grounding and helps us to be more aware of our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Attention to the present can also help us to appreciate what is going on in the physical environment around us.

Keep learning

Whether formal learning or just trying something new, like a new hobby, recipe or an alternative walking route, stimulates the brain and can boost confidence. 

Give

Helping other people can help us: an act of kindness, big or small, can make us feel positive.  We can help in many ways, through volunteering or simply by helping a friend in need or a young relative with homework.

Incorporating these steps into your life doesn’t have to happen all at once. Even small, consistent steps can make a real difference over time.

Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, taking a short walk, noticing the world around you, trying something new or giving a little kindness, each action can help improve your mood, build resilience and bring more balance to your life.

Start with one or two of these actions today and see how they can help you feel more connected, capable and positive.

Resources

Learn more about the research behind the Five ways to wellbeing | New Economics Foundation

Discover more ways to bring these steps into your routine: Five Ways to Wellbeing | Mind

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