Оздоровление как образ жизни: колесо оздоровления и вы – социальное благополучие

Мишель Уилсон, менеджер оздоровительной программы

The wellness wheel and you: social well-being

This month we are focusing on social wellness, which is especially important to pay attention to now. Social well-being is based on having healthy relationships with friends, family, co-workers, and others around us. It is supported by spending quality time with people, making a difference in our community, and having fun with those we care about.

This year has been challenging for most of us. Many people are feeling the effects of having to change the ways we connect with each other socially and this is especially true as we move into the winter holiday season. Here are a few ways to stay connected to others even as we need to keep more physical distance from each other.

Send cards and letters

Many of us are spending more time at home these days, so why not use some of that time to write a note or a letter to someone you care about? Thinking about the things you appreciate about the person will bring you a sense of happiness, and when the receiver of your card or letter reads what you write, you will have sent that happiness to another person.

Connect safely outdoors

Bundle up and enjoy the beauty of winter with someone you love. Wear a mask and keep a safe distance as you take a walk through nature or stroll through a shopping area and look at the holiday decorations. This will give you the benefit of social connection with the added bonus of enjoying the environment around you. If you take a long walk in nature, you will also contribute to the health of your body and emotions.

Plan a weekly call or video-chat with family or friends

You may not be able to meet for coffee right now, but you can have a virtual coffee date by phone or through a video chat. Set a weekly day and time to connect, pour a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy talking about your week with someone you love.

Create something beautiful

Think about someone who is important in your life and create a gift for them. It could be as simple as a collage of favorite photos of time you’ve spent together or as big as a handmade quilt. As you create this gift, feel the connection you have with this person and know that we will all be able to connect in person again before too long.

Connect with groups online

Look for holiday celebrations and connections that will be offered virtually this year and join when you can. Look for holiday concerts, church services, and group gatherings that will offer you ways to stay connected to your community through the holiday season. If you don’t see one you want to join, consider scheduling something yourself and invite friends and family members.

Кончик: Pay attention to how you feel each day. If you know you need more connection with others, choose at least one thing each day to help you stay connected with those you care about. Make a commitment to yourself to stay socially connected as we move into the new year together.