All Right? Digest: 12th July 2022
Kia ora How's winter working out for you? We hope you've managed to keep warm, dry, and have avoided the (many many) nasty bugs that are floating around right now.
Although Matariki celebrations have come to a close, the whetū in the sky are still watching over us offering a perfect time to practice some whakawhetai or gratitude.
Practising gratitude isn't always easy - especially when the days are colder and wetter and there's a lot more sickness about. But taking the time to think about what we're grateful for is one of the best things we can do for our wellbeing. When we express gratitude, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin — two hormones that make us feel lighter and happier inside.
The use of a 'gratitude trigger' is one way to get into a habit of gratitude. Perhaps when you brush your teeth at night or make your morning cuppa, you can use this moment to think of something you are grateful for. It's an awesome but easy moment of mindfulness you can inject into your day.
Speaking of gratitude, we are super grateful to have been able to speak to Lads without Labels on what they're up to in Ōtautahi. We've also loved teaming up with our friends at Creative NZ on a series exploring the arts and creativity - read on for more!
Kia kaha Aotearoa,
All Right?
View the All Right? Digest for 14th July 2022 online.
Not all right?
New challenges and the loss of our regular routines is causing stress for many of us. This can really erode our wellbeing over time. It’s important to remember to do the little things that help recharge us. It’s also important to know there is someone to talk to and free help available.
It’s all right to reach out if you need to - we all need a bit of support from time-to-time.
Call or text 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor anytime - it’s free and completely confidential. You can also call Lifeline on 0800 543354 or text HELP to 4357.
Check out the Mental Health Foundation’s website for further advice on how to stay mentally well during this time.
Ko tā te manawa
Time to relax.