Healthy Minds
Now more than ever, we need to ensure that we are keeping both physically and mentally healthy. Below are some pointers and guidance which you might find useful to keep your minds active and remember, it's ok to talk to someone you trust:
- Try and get into a routine which suits you and keeps you busy
- Exercise, whether that's going for a walk or run, is a wonderful way of getting rid of excess energy
- Just because we are all confined to our houses, doesn't mean we forget about eating healthily
- Make sure you don't spend all of your time in doors. Even if you've done your daily exercise, sit in your garden, or sit with a window open and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!
- Interact with friends - this is absolutely essential. For once, you're not being told to get off your phone, so use whatever means you have - WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom - to check in with your friends and peers regularly. They might not be your best friends at school, but someone you've got to know just at Scouts. They will appreciate you checking they are ok
Websites
Listed below are some websites you might want to have a look at:
- Breathing Space
- Lifelink
- Scottish Association for Mental Health
- Young Minds
- Young Minds in Isolation
Together with the list of websites above, there are some apps that you can download with suggestions of relaxation exercises and other resources. This list was originally sent to Unit members on 1st May 2019, so as a reminder, please see the list below. Please note, these apps have not been tested by us personally, however, are freely available to download:
Apps
- Calm
- Mindfulness and meditation app
- Calm Harm
- Designed for teenagers
- Headspace
- Guided meditation sessions and mindfulness training
- Sanvello (originally Pacifica)
- includes audio lessens and activities created by psychologists to help manage stress, anxiety, or depression.
Speaking Out
It's so important to speak to someone if you're feeling down or just wanting to chat about things. Especially now, we've got more and more time to think and our minds can sometimes run wild. As your youth leaders, of course we are here to help if we can, so don't hesitate to get in touch if you need to talk.
