The average lifespan of a woman in 1920 was just over 50 years.
One hundred years later, the life expectancy of women is 83 years of age and the number is on the rise.
Not only are women living longer, but they can also anticipate enjoying a better quality of life if they take care of their health and wellness.
The concept of wellbeing brings together not just physical health, but also our social, financial, vocational, and psychological health. We believe there are six key factors that are critical for women to optimise their wellbeing.
“Communities and countries, and ultimately the world, are only as strong as the health of their women.”
Michelle Obama
Purpose
Purpose is fundamental to overall wellbeing.
People who feel that living a meaningful life have stronger personal relationships, few physical health problems, improved mental health and healthier lifestyles.
A sense of purpose is created by having goals in life and a sense of direction and holding beliefs that give our life meaning.
Rest
Rest and sleep are critical to good health.
We need to allow our minds and our bodies time to rest and recover so that we can enjoy life to its fullest.
Getting sufficient good quality sleep is one of the most important ways to look after your wellbeing.
In addition, taking regular breaks and ‘turning off’ from devices are valuable to helping us to reset.
Play
Play is not just for children!
In our hectic lives we seem to have so many commitments that there might not feel like there is any time left for play.
Engaging in regular play can add joy to our lives, relieve stress, enhance our learning and connect us to others and the work around us.
Play might be exercising with others, engaging in a game, sharing a joke with a friend – it doesn’t matter to much as long as you have fun and enjoy yourself.
Nourish
Nourish means to get the food and nourishment we need for health and for growth.
Without the right supply of nutrients, we may become unwell, lose strength, or succumb to major illness.
To maintain health, we need to consume a mix of seven different nutrients: water, fibre, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fats.
Eating a diet rich in healthy and wholesome foods will directly improve the way we feel and can also impact our mood.
Reflect
Reflect on a regular basis to increase self-awareness, self-acceptance, confidence, and inner peace.
Taking time to reflect is a healthy way to consider and change behaviours that concern you.
The goal is not to judge your past choices, but to reflect on them, learn from them and to make whatever changes you feel are appropriate.
Connect
Connect with those important to you often!
Connecting with others and building good relationships are important for our mental wellbeing.
Family, friends, neighbours, and the wider community all play an important part in our overall wellbeing.
Having strong social connections in our life can increase our feelings of happiness and self-worth.
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Take a little time to identify where you might benefit from some additional attention… and then don’t be shy about making yourself a priority! Jada Pinkett Smith was on the money when she said: “You always have to remember to take care of yourself, first and foremost. Because when you stop taking care of yourself, you get out of balance and you really forget how to take care of others.” If you want support on your wellbeing journey or are looking for other ideas to take care of yourself, we’re here to help. |
