The five ways to wellbeing are to give, be active, keep learning, take notice and connect.
This column is the first of a five-part series to give a deeper understanding of how you can enhance your wellbeing and that of those around you.
Part One — Give:Giving is a very important aspect of wellbeing but it’s one that can easily get overlooked as we’re busy juggling farm and family commitments.
The more we help others using the skills or resources we have, the more we reap the benefits.
Generosity and active participation in social groups or in your community can be a humbling and rewarding experience for both the giver and recipient.
All age groups can benefit, and it might be something you already encourage your children to do.
Not only does giving grow a sense of purpose and self-worth, it also has a positive influence on our own wellbeing. There are many ways you can incorporate this into your daily or weekly mindset.
Not sure where to start? Here are just a few ideas of some things you could do to give back. —
• Call a local play group and see if the children would like to see your baby chicks or calves, bring some animals to them or, even better, invite them on to your farm.
• Visit a local rest-home and enjoy a social hour or two chatting to the residents.
• Write a letter to someone who you have been thinking about recently who could do with cheering up — your words will mean a lot.• Join a community volunteer group or contact them to find out when any working bees are coming up.
• Ask the local church if they need some help mowing their lawns for a month.
• Spend some time playing with the cats and kittens at the SPCA.
• Ask your local Lions Club when they are bagging up their manure next and offer a few hours of your time.
• Walk the neighbour’s dog if they need a break and you need the fresh air.
• Mischa Clouston is contracted to DairyNZ’s wellness and wellbeing team. She is a sheep, beef and deer farmer’s wife, and rural practice nurse in North Otago. You can find more information about the five ways to wellbeing at www.mentalhealth.org.nz
- Mischa Clouston
