Chaplain's Corner
Hi Everyone,
Did you know that the this week in October is MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK?
There are many ways we can improve the mental health of ourselves and our families, and I know that many of you did just that with plenty of sleep, outdoor activities, holidays and time with friends.
I would like to focus on a VERY SIMPLE, BUT VERY EFFECTIVE way we can improve our mental health – GRATITUDE! Gratitude can lower stress levels, improve sleep, and boost our immune system just by being grateful!
We are not born feeling grateful, so need help to understand what it means to be grateful and empathetic, and learn how to practice and show gratitude.
Eight gratitude prompts to explore with your children and young people.
- Something money can’t buy that I’m grateful for is…
- Something that comforts me that I’m grateful for is…
- A challenge I’m grateful for is…
- Something in nature I’m grateful for is…
- Something that makes me smile that I’m grateful for is…
- Someone who makes me happy that I’m grateful for…
- A memory that I’m grateful for is…
- A strength of mine which I’m grateful for is…
Ways to help you practise being grateful
- Keep a journal. Start the day by writing down three things you are grateful for. This also helps to increase your sense of wellbeing and happiness by appreciating the small things.
- Start a gratitude jar. Write notes and put them in the jar throughout the year, then read the statements together as a family.
- Role model it to your kids. If something happens throughout the day you are grateful for, say it out loud. “I’m so grateful we live in a neighbourhood with such an awesome park”, “I’m grateful we get to spend time with Grandma and Grandpa on the weekend”, “Today is a beautiful day, the sun is shining (for this week, the rain is important too), I am grateful for the good weather!”
- Have a daily chat about 1 or 2 things you are grateful for, showing that even on days that are not all that crash hot, there are things to be thankful for, eg the sound of the birds.
- Take photos of things you are grateful for. After a given time, create a collage of all the photos.
SO, care for your family’s mental health through AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE!
Take Care!
Robyn Mulholland (School Chaplain)