It’s normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed or isolated during this difficult time so we thought we’d share some stuff that might help. Here's a list of resources to support you based around the five ways to wellbeing:
1 Connect:
There's strong evidence that feeling close to, and valued by, other people is a fundamental human need and one that contributes to functioning well in the world. Make time to connect with family and friends. Here's a list of our favourite websites which can help you feel connected at this time:
Enter Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights
Join a virtual wellbeing support group
Connect with animals online with this zoo-cam
Or go underwater with an aquarium-cam
2 Be active:
Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups and is essential for promoting wellbeing. Here are our top finds:
Try a free exercise call with FITISM 70
Take a PE lesson with Joe Wicks
Head to the Bath YMCA for some gym and exercise classes
Fitness and wellbeing with Davina
3 Take notice:
Reminding yourself to ‘take notice’ can strengthen and broaden awareness and directly enhances your wellbeing. Take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you:
Get creative with Creativity Works in Radstock
Weekly creative sessions with the Holburne Museum in Bath
4 Keep learning:
Continued learning through life enhances self-esteem and encourages social interaction and a more active life. Here are some of the best sites we have found:
Enrol on a free online course with Future Learn or the Open University
Learn to play the guitar for free
Explore the British Museum's collections
Cook something new with these four easy meals and Gordon Ramsay's 31 one-pot recipes
Dance like no one is watching... to the Bee Gees... or learn 12 basic Bollywood dance moves.
Get self-help with depression and anxiety
Take a pick of these 50 creative classes
5 Give:
Research has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period is associated with an increase in wellbeing. Here are some ideas for how you can get involved locally:
Donate to the Bath Cats & Dogs Home
Carry out a random act of kindness
Support Curo's charity of the year for 2020 - Time is Precious
Thanks to the Wellbeing College, Creativity Works, Mind UK and Curo colleagues with ideas for this resource page.
If you have children at home don't miss this list of activities to keep the kids active, entertained and learning during the lockdown.