As defined by the Collins Dictionary, wellbeing is "the condition of being contented, healthy, or successful."
But how does one achieve said state?
Well, that's different for everybody. But no matter who you are, there are some tried and tested strategies to improve how you feel, both inside and out.
Here are 30 tips for a better, brighter you.
1. Switch Off
Remember to take a break from the constant buzz of your smartphone, laptop, PlayStation, tablet, Tamagotchi or [insert device here].
2. Be Active Outside
Mother Nature is good for us mentally, and any kind of exercise is good for us physically.
So take it outside for a double whammy of wellbeing!
3. Love To Laugh
When we get the giggles, our bodies release natural, feel-good chemicals.
So get your funniest friend on the phone, watch some Robin Williams or do what makes you LOL.
READ >> 6 health benefits of laughter
4. Keep Learning
It’s always a good time to learn something new!
Train your brain with new challenges and keep it guessing.
5. Stay Hydrated
Water regulates body temperature and helps maintain your other functions.
So make H20 your go-to drink – especially in the heat.
6. Get Involved
Connect with your community and stay social.
You could join a club, volunteer, or simply say yes when you might’ve said no.
7. Give Hugs
Cuddles encourage your body to release oxytocin, a neurotransmitter often dubbed the ‘love hormone’.
It plays a key role in bonding, and helps you and the lucky recipient feel cool, calm and collected.
8. Plan An Adventure
Having something to look forward to is a great way to boost happiness.
It could be a mini getaway or a full blown pilgrimage – if you’ve got time up your sleeve, then by all means plan it!
9. Don't Hold A Grudge
Try to forgive and forget – especially the petty stuff.
Holding a grudge holds you and your happiness back, so learn to let go of unnecessary anger and stress.
10. Eat A Rainbow
Fill your plate with colourful, nutrient-dense food and give your body what it needs. And no, we don’t mean Skittles!
Nutrition Australia has some great tips here.
11. Stress Less
Chronic stress is a no-no for wellbeing.
Make sure you address whatever is stressing you out and take some time to relax. Zone out in a bubble bath, grab a colouring book or listen to music – whatever works for you.
12. Stay Stimulated
Mentally stimulating activities help your brain build new cells and strengthen connections.
Working on something particularly challenging can kick things up a notch, so whip out the crossword or get stuck into some Ikea instructions!
READ >> 10 tips for better brain health
13. Maintain Posture
With bad posture comes back pain, tension, circulation problems, headaches and a whole host of other things.
So do what your teacher told you and sit up straight!
14. Set Small Goals
It’s all about the little wins.
So be realistic with your goals, and take it step by step. Rome wasn’t built in a day!
15. Practise Positivity
There’s a lot of power in being positive.
Try holding back negative thoughts and observations, and look for the good instead.
16. Smile More
When we smile, our bodies release all sorts of feel-good chemicals that benefit our health and happiness.
So even if you’ve had a woeful Wednesday, crack a smile just for the sake of it! Laughing does wonders for the body, too!
17. Feel Your Feelings
It’s okay to be sad, scared, proud, excited or otherwise.
Let yourself experience emotions instead of sweeping them under the rug.
18. Sleep Well
A good night’s rest helps you function at your best.
Most of us need around 8 hours of shut eye.
19. Give Back
Help out a mate. Tell someone they look great. Volunteer. Donate clothes, cash, blood… or hugs.
You’ll be surprised how good you’ll feel for it.
READ >> Why you should volunteer in aged care or disability support
20. Take Notice
Make a mental note to stay curious.
Stop and really see what’s around you and take time to appreciate the little things.
21. Use Your Muscles
Muscle mass declines with age, and as they say – use it or lose it!
You don’t need to become a gym junkie – it could be as simple as walking with some light weights or some extra elbow grease in the garden!
READ >> 5 reasons to keep walking as you get older
22. Connect With Nature
Mother Nature has a way of lifting spirits, so whenever you can, go outside and appreciate her.
Eat pistachios on the patio, read under a tree, or do a spot of gardening.
READ >> Why gardening is so good for you
23. Stay Social
Social engagement is not only good for our personal wellbeing; it’s also beneficial for brain health.
So take the lead and plan a catch-up, join a book club or simply talk more to those around you.
24. Value Yourself
Believe it or not, but feeling good about yourself is good for you!
Reflect on what you’ve achieved, happily accept compliments and don’t forget to pat yourself on the back every now and then.
25. Say Something
If there’s something on your chest, let it out.
Don’t be scared to say sorry, ask for forgiveness or speak the truth.
26. Appreciate Music
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – music and wellbeing work in harmony!
27. Be Creative
Whether it’s art, music, woodwork, poetry, crochet or something else entirely, it feels pretty good to marvel over something you’ve made yourself.
So spend a little time being creative with whatever floats your boat.
READ >> 5 big benefits of creative expression
28. Get Your Protein
Muscle mass is made up of protein. As we age, we lose a fair bit of muscle mass, so it’s important to have enough protein in your diet.
If you don’t eat meat or dairy, try eating more beans, spinach and nuts – they’re packed full of the good stuff!
29. Make Furry Friends
Spending time with animals has been shown to lower the stress hormone and stimulate feelings of happiness.
If you haven’t got a pet, visit some farm animals or take a trip to the zoo!
READ >> 4 reasons why pets are so good for our wellbeing
30. Live In The Moment!
Be more aware of the here and now.
Be present, put your phone down, and really take in the beauty of what’s around you.
At Brightwater, we're all about wellbeing. We provide home care, residential aged care and retirement living solutions for seniors, as well as support for younger people with complex disabilities.
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