Shine Fest

Connect

Monday 11th July focused on Connect. There is strong evidence that indicates that feeling close to, and valued by, other people is a fundamental human need and one that contributes to functioning well in the world. It’s clear that social relationships are critical for promoting welllbeing and for acting as a buffer against mental ill health for people of all ages. With this in mind, we spent the day making connections and trying new things.

Be Active

Tuesday 12th July focused on Being Active. Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups. Exercise is essential for slowing agerelated cognitive decline and for promoting well-being. Exercise can have the benefit of encouraging social interactions also.

Give

The theme for Wednesday 13th July was Giving. Participation in social and community life has attracted a lot of attention in the field of welllbeing research. Individuals who report a greater interest in helping others are more likely to rate themselves as happy. Research into actions for promoting happiness has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period is associated with an increase in welllbeing.

Keep Learning

Thursday 14th July focused on Keep Learning. Continued learning through life enhances self-esteem and encourages social interaction and a more active life. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the opportunity to engage in work or educational activities particularly helps to lift older people out of depression. The practice of setting goals has been strongly associated with higher levels of welllbeing.

Take Notice

The theme for Friday 15th July was Take Notice. Reminding yourself to ‘take notice’ can strengthen and broaden awareness. Studies have shown that being aware of what is taking place in the present directly enhances your well-being and savouring ‘the moment’ can help to reaffirm your life priorities. Heightened awareness also enhances your self-understanding and allows you to make positive choices based on your own values and motivations.

Pupil Voice

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