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A state of mindfulness - attentiveness to and awareness of sensations, thoughts and feelings - enhances well-being. Allow yourself the time to pause and savour the moment.

Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are on a train, eating lunch or talking to friends. Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you and discover things that give you joy.

Actions you could take:

• Try Stop - Calm - Rest - Notice. Stop, take 10 mindful breaths, and rest while you notice everything going on around you and within you. Use cues in your daily life to remind yourself to pause and breathe, such as your phone notifications or the sound of a bird.
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• Keep a gratitude diary - a tool to help you appreciate life's little pleasures. Take five minutes each day to list a few things or people in your life to be grateful for. It can be anything from enjoying some sunshine to a brief conversation with a neighbour. It may not seem easy to recognise things at first, but after a few days it becomes more of a habit. Be patient and keep at it.
• Explore mediation and mindfulness.
• Try yoga.
• Sit quietly in a busy place and notice the interactions between people.
• Sit quietly in an outdoor space and listen to the sounds of nature.
• Leave your workplace for breaks. Go for a walk and be mindful of your breathing, your steps and the environment around you.

Adapted from the New Economics Foundation Five Ways to Wellbeing Project

More Five Ways to Well-being Articles

Five Ways to Well-being
Connect: Build Positive Relationships
Be Active: Move to Feel Good
Keep Learning: Open Your Mind
Give: Find Fulfillment in Helping Others

Resources & Links:

The British Columbia Association for Living Mindfully: BCalm BC
Mind Your Mind: Taking Joy in the Simple Things
Mindfulness - Based Stress Reduction
Meditation
Kelty Mental Health Resource Center: Mindfulness
BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres Wellness Clinics (offered at some Friendship Centres)