Psychologist Peter Kinderman proposed the following five ways to mental well-being.
- Be active
Physical exercises on a regular basis, besides making one healthier, also improves mood and increases one’s psychological well-being. Brain chemistry is changed as a result of the physical activities. How vigorous and strenuous the exercise to undertake differ from person to person. A general rule of thumb would be tailoring physical exercises based on one’s existing capacity to exercise; for example, clearly a 50 year old will choose exercises that are different from, say, a younger adult or a teenager. Seek advice from your doctor before you begin an exercise regime, and if necessary, hire a fitness coach.
Physical health includes getting enough sleep. Not enough sleep takes a toll on our immune system.
- Connect, and build relationships with people
Studies have shown that our relationships are very important to our well-being. Good, supportive relationships both within and outside of the family circle, contribute to happier and healthier lives. This means making an effort to cultivate happy and amenable relations with neighbors, friends and colleagues. To widen the circle of friends, you can also join groups and organizations whose interests align with yours. - Be a lifelong learner
Stay curious and engage in learning. This does not necessarily mean getting an academic degree, but simply enjoying learning in topics and subjects that interest you; for example, pick up a hobby and learn the intricacies of it. Visit the library to read more about your hobby. These days, e-books and audio books are widely available. - Give …
The first thought that comes to mind could be in the form of monetary donations. However, Peter Kinderman recommends the giving of your time, ideas, energy, enthusiasm and leadership. Apparently, research has shown that doing things for others is one powerful way to feel happier and which could improve mental well-being. Research evidence shows that helping other people can lead to supportive reciprocal relationships which in turn increase your own feelings of competence, improve your mood and reduce stress. - Be present …
Mindfulness is a buzzword in society these days. Being present simply calls for us to be aware of the moment; this moment. If your eyes see beauty, enjoy it. If your ears hear sweet melodious sounds, stop and listen. If you feel happy inside, stop and savor the happiness. You may feel that more often than not, you experience this happiness without cause. When you stop to acknowledge it, the Universe brings you more.
This reminds me – instead of snapping photos of the scenery before us, what if instead we put the camera (or phone cam) aside and just allow our eyes and our whole being to soak in the scene and the atmosphere. In short, savor the beauty in front of you, and feel the happiness inside your heart.