Ways to Wellbeing
Connect
Connection is the cornerstone of our emotional wellbeing.
Building and maintaining meaningful relationships with family, friends, and our community is vital for our mental health. Cultivating strong connections can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, boost self-esteem, and provide emotional support during challenging times.
How connection supports our wellbeing
Human beings are ‘social animals’ and research shows that having other people in our lives improves our wellbeing at any age.
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There are two types of relationships that are important: Strong and meaningful connections and Broad social networks.
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Whether it's sharing laughs with your besties or just waving hello to your neighbours, all these connections add up to make your life happier and more fulfilling. It's like a recipe for happiness that's good for everyone!
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Learn more: 5waystowellbeing.org.au/5-ways/connect
Strong and meaningful connections
These relationships involve individuals who hold a special place in your heart, typically close friends and family.
These meaningful connections offer support during challenging times, bring joy and fulfilment to your life, offer words of encouragement, and provide a profound sense of purpose.
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There are many ways you can nurture these relationships:
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Schedule a time of the week to talk to friends over the phone, by texts, emails, or visiting (variety helps).
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Go out for coffee or see a movie with friends, family or work friends.
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Ask friends or family members to help you organise regular, fun activities.
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Read stories to your children, or ask them to read one to you.
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Invite a friend for a ‘walk and talk’.
Broad social networks
In addition to deep connections, it's important to cultivate a broader network of relationships within your community and the wider world.
While these relationships may not be as deeply intimate, they hold their own importance. They offer a sense of belonging, connect you with the world around you, boost your self-esteem, and help you establish your role within the broader community.
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Tips when making new social connections:
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Smile and make eye contact.
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Say “Hi” or “Hello” and greet them by their name if you know it.
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Be present. If you really want to connect with people, then you have to work on being present in the conversation.
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Ask questions and keep things positive, and really listen to the answer.
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Show that you’ve been listening by giving sincere compliments or advice.
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Find something you share in common to talk about.
Ideas to make new social connections in the Southern Riverina
Volunteer with Girl Guides (NSW & ACT) Finley
Becoming a volunteer with Girl Guides is a fun and rewarding way to make a difference. We are committed to giving every Guide the tools and the resources they need to grow and develop. We are, after all, A Place to Grow.
As a Volunteer, the possibilities are endless, and you can make a real difference in the lives of girls and young women.
Volunteer with Finley Regional Care
Volunteering in aged care covers a broad spectrum of tasks and processes, and you can no doubt find a way to volunteer that will allow you to use your interests and strengths. Consider:
If you would like to start your volunteer journey with Finley Regional Care, and join a wonderful and dedicated group of volunteers, get in contact on 02 5504 6508.
