Keeping healthy is something we all need to think about and take personal responsibility for. Many people assume that poor health is an inevitable part of getting older and even use this as an excuse to lead an unhealthy lifestyle, but there are plenty of small steps you can take to improve your health and to help you on your way to a longer, happier and more independent life.
Taking care of yourself by eating healthily and being active can easily drop to the bottom of your priority list when work, family and social commitments are on your mind, but just a few small changes to your lifestyle can make all the difference.
The Change4Life campaign provides a host of useful information on ways in which you can improve your own health and the health of your family.
Please visit: Change4Life to get inspired!
More guidance is available in the Get Moving, Get Active booklet which is available to download below or can be picked up from the council offices. This booklet gives advice on a range of everyday activities, suggestions for healthy eating and help on how you can start to lead a more active, healthy lifestyle.
Just as we can take steps to make sure our bodies stay fit and healthy, we can also take steps to look after our mental and emotional wellbeing. Mental and emotional health issues are part of our everyday lives and can affect us as much as problems with our physical health. One in four people have a mental health issue at some time in their life and stress is now cited as one of the biggest causes of sickness absence from work.
Research has lead to a simple approach to improve overall wellbeing:
- CONNECT - with the people around you.
- BE ACTIVE - go for a walk, dance, run, step outside, anything that makes you feel good.
- TAKE NOTICE - take notice, be curious, be aware of the world around you.
- KEEP LEARNING - try something new, set challenges and enjoy achievements.
- GIVE - do something for someone, volunteer your time, look out as well as in.
These actions and benefits are described in more detail at http://www.neweconomics.org/projects/five-ways-well-being
