We are now entering the fifth week of the Wellbeing Pillar 1. This week the topic to be covered in the Boarding Houses will be based around positive activities. I would like the students to ask themselves ‘how do they spend their free time?’ This is linked to the second takeaway point of this pillar which is: ‘How can we use our hobbies to de-stress?’ Therefore, I would like the students to first identify their hobbies (perhaps relating sport, art, reading or music etc), then encourage them all to use these extremely beneficial activities as positive form of relaxation or destressing.
Spending time on an activity that you enjoy can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress, low mood, and depression. Activities that get you out and about can make you feel happier and more relaxed. Group activities like team sports can improve your communication skills and relationships with others.
Your interests may be creative, athletic, academic, or something distinctly personal. You may choose a hobby that you can do alone or as part of a group. Whatever your interests are, there is sure to be a hobby out there for you. What matters is that it is something you find meaningful and enjoyable.