Ulster Rugby vs Cheetahs

CHARITYPARTNER SIXSTEPSTO TACKLEYOURFEELINGS

This Six Nations, our charity partner Extern is encouraging everyone to TACKLE their feelings with six recognised steps which can help improve wellbeing.

anxiety to clearer thinking and increased self-esteem when we see positive changes to our physical fitness or social life, being ACTIVE really can be a great way to work through mental health illness. Being active does not have to only mean going for a run. Do what you can to move your mood. Any form of physical movement can be beneficial: » Do some gardening » Try some stretches » Go for a gentle stroll at lunchtime » Join a sports team » Break up long periods of sitting » Jogging. You could try Couch to 5k or your local parkrun. » Take a yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi class CONNECTING - We all need to feel close to other people and valued by them. Having good relationships with colleagues helps us stay motivated and engaged. CONNECTING is about being there for others, talking and listening, and feeling a sense of belonging. How to connect: » Chat with the Extern's Reach Out team about any worries you have in relation to your wellbeing. » Join a team or club » Talk to someone and really listen » Organise a shared lunch » Reconnect with an old friend » Eat lunch with friends or colleagues Evidence shows that connecting with others and forming good relationships – with family, friends and the wider community – are important for mental wellbeing.

Why not take a few moments to improve your wellbeing by thinking how you could follow the six simple

steps below: » T ake Notice » A ctive » C onnect » K eep Learning » L end a hand » E nergy

TAKING NOTICE to increase awareness, concentration, and focus on the current moment and the task at hand, has been shown to improve wellbeing and mood. One of the reasons why we sometimes find ourselves struggling mentally is that our thoughts drift off to bad memories or things we regret or regret not doing from our past Here some ideas to help reconnect with the world around you: » Keep a beautiful object near your desk » Practise gratitude » Try mindfulness meditation » Sit quietly in a garden or park » Listen to your favourite music » Take a break from digital devices ACTIVE - As well as improving physical health and fitness, being ACTIVE can also improve our mood and overall mental wellbeing, as well as decreasing stress, depression and anxiety. From reduced

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