Small Change, Big Difference

Small changes CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

Probably now more than ever we are conscious of our wellbeing in every respect, and as Adele Trathan found out when she attended a couple of Mid Sussex District Councils wellbeing sessions, a few changes can really help

It’s not surprising that the last year has made such a difference in our attitude towards our wellbeing. Personally, I have experienced a bit of a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes I have been extremely active at working on my physical and mental wellbeing, but there have been times I have completely neglected to look after myself due to the anxiety caused by the pandemic. So, I was intrigued to find out about some of the courses that Mid Sussex District Council run for the wellbeing of the residents.

I was invited to join one of the virtual video sessions on offer. The list of courses was comprehensive, covering many aspects of wellbeing from physical wellbeing including Stretch and Move, Weight Loss and Quitting Smoking, to emotional health issues such Relax and Breathe or Sleep Awareness.

I joined the Food and Mood session which was hosted by a friendly lady called Julia. She was very welcoming and helped us explore our relationship with food. We learned the difference between physical and emotional hunger, how mood can be positively affected with good nutrition rather than comfort eating poor substitutes. We learnt what foods constitute a good balanced diet and finished with an exercise that trains our body to engage with the process of mindful eating. Whilst I was already aware about some of the details that were covered, I found the session really helped to reinforce the importance of fuelling my body effectively and how it impacts so many aspects of personal wellbeing.

I think most people have seen their wellbeing challenged over the last year

It re-engaged me and subsequently I have made a few changes to my diet that have made me feel more alert and energetic than I had been previously.

Next up was the Relax and Breathe workshop. I was interested in this as many people have suffered from anxiety and stress over the last year. It was a short 20-minute talk on mindful or conscious breathing that was hosted by an informative and engaging Michelle. She taught us the benefits of conscious breathing and how effective it can be on calming our emotions, relaxing the body, reducing tension and even helping to lower blood pressure and manage panic attacks. I enjoyed the practical exercise and learned that your breath is a bit like an anchor, that can really help especially if suffering with stress or anxiety.

The sessions also work like a gateway to other areas of wellbeing that you might like to work on, many of which are free of charge but if needed, you can also book additional sessions or workshops for a small additional charge. l Courses are available from Mid Sussex District Council Wellbeing: 01444 477191 wellbeing@midsussex.gov.uk midsussex.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk