South West Wellbeing Centre
By Jay Anderson
The year is zooming past us and now we have a change of season. For those of us in Australia – its the start of winter. This can be a time of challenges for many people – cold, grey, rainy. Many people say they don’t like winter, while others thrive in its warmth and comfort. Have a think about your favourite season? What do you like about it? What memories do you have……
Rather than getting stuck on not liking a particular season, I have always tried to think of the positives of the weather, what ever it may be. There are things to be “joyful” about for anything, if you set your mind to it. Every season is different, there are some benefits and of course some challenges. I always found it hard to exercise in winter – it can be hard to get motivated in the cold and wet mornings. Having a dog has helped me, but its more my mindset that she needs the exercise to start her day, that gets me motivated to get her out and therefore, it gets us both out. We put on our raincoats (and I put on gloves and a scarf) and we hit the tracks. The other day we had a storm and although it was windy, there was a high tide, which meant our tracks by the river in one section, were calf deep in water – and at one point she needed to swim (on my bike it was deep but
hey, whats a bit of water!!”) it was such an adventure. We laughed and woofed our way thru – getting home to get dry (and to enjoy a hot, steamy shower).
I like to focus on the positives and with the “Weather”, I encourage you to think about how you can think differently. A storm can be scary and frightening, but it can also be amazing, fascinating and special. We can be thankful for the rain and for the fresh air. We can be thankful for having a home, a safe place……somewhere to be warm and dry. We can choose to have a different emotional response, and that can affect how we feel all day. Being reinvigorated and renewed…….
So think again about June. About winter. What can you enjoy, experience differently or appreciate. How can you reframe things for your kids or your partner. How can you help them to be curious, to appreciate or to think differently? I encourage you to check out the “Action for Happiness” website. This month is promoted as “Joyful June” and the motto is “There is always something to be thankful for”. Check out the calendar here.
** Download the actions to your calendar using this Google Calendar or iCalendar file.
What could you do differently?
- List the things that make you happy
- Plan some times with people who make you happy.
- Draw how you feel with colours and shapes.
- If things are challenging for you then consider connecting with a Psychologist, a Coach or a counsellor – someone who can provide support for you and assist with changes in mindset. This can be face to face or telehealth.
As we discussed last month, Looking after YOU is vital. And, your perspective on things will affect your emotions and your behaviour. Think about how your June is going to be. For more information, I can be contacted for more information on info@mychildmyfamily.com.au
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