Earlier this year at Mitsubishi Electric, we launched our wellbeing programme “Ikigai” focused on six pillars of wellbeing – mind, body, connect, money, give and learn.
Since then, our Wellbeing Champions have held wellbeing events across the UK including Happiness Week, Talk Money Week and Movember, with activities for colleagues to take time out and enjoy, such as mindfulness, sleep seminar, learning about money, and baking and donating to name a few.
Our aim is for colleagues to be able to support their wellbeing both at home and at work, and we have much more to look forward to in the new year!
For now though, taking time to prioritise wellbeing is important, especially during the winter months.
It’s definitely got colder, and with the shortest day of the year not too far away now, it’s the perfect time to share some wellbeing hints and tips that you may find useful.
We can all help each other find winter wellness so keep an eye on loved ones, friends, colleagues and neighbours
Emily Perry Senior HR Professional in our People Team
Mindful of mental health
Maintaining good mental wellbeing isn’t always easy during the winter months; Reduced sunlight exposure in winter can impact mental health, which can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and levels of stress and anxiety can be impacted due to weather, celebrations and cost of living.
By spending time outdoors during daylight hours and engaging in activities that bring joy can help reduce the impact. Whether it's listening to music, heading to the gym, or practicing mindfulness, these activities play a pivotal role in maintaining positive mental well-being.
Sometimes a little more support is needed and that’s ok.
At Mitsubishi Electric, we have our wonderful Mental Health First Aiders and an excellent Employee Assistance Programme that is available to support colleagues during this time of the year, giving advice and support where needed.
For others, please head here to find out what resources are available: Helplines and listening services - Mind
Balanced nutrition: Nourishing the body
Nourishing our bodies with nutrient-rich foods is key to sustaining energy levels and supporting overall well-being particularly when there are more coughs and colds around!
Warm winter stews and drinking plenty of water (hot or cold), will only help with physical health and bolster our immune systems.
Also make sure to maintain good hygiene, cough into your elbow and wash those hands to lessen the likelihood of yourself and others picking up a winter bug.
Staying connected
A cold, dark winter might tempt us to stay home, but staying in touch with others is like a cup of hot chocolate for the soul.
Whether family or friends, our social relationships significantly contribute to a sense of belonging and emotional well-being.
Don’t fancy going out? Go virtual! How about a watch party on a video streaming service, or face time a loved one.
Kindness and generosity
Giving back during the winter season takes on special significance.
Acts of kindness and generosity, whether through gift giving, donating to those in need, or helping a neighbour put up their Christmas decorations, create a sense of fulfilment and purpose.
Even small gestures can make a big difference and bring a sense of fulfilment to you, and positivity to those around you too!
Money conscious
Heading out to parties and gathering can impact our financial resources at this time of year, we may find ourselves buying a new outfit, going out for dinner and gift giving too.
Taking into consideration the cost of living, there are many cost effective ways to enjoy this season that can also have additional wellbeing benefits – wrapping up warm for a winter walk with friends and a flask of your favourite hot drink, community festive events, DIY winter crafts for the garden and home.
Learn more about winter wellness
And our last pillar… There are huge number of resources available online for winter wellness and I encourage you to explore and learn further with the lens of our six Ikigai pillars.
You may find yourself cooking a new winter recipe to nourish your body, finding out where your nearest wintery walk with family could be, or how to make a wreath from things in the garden!
Over this chilly period, we can all help each other find winter wellness using some of the tips above - so keep an eye on loved ones, friends, colleagues and neighbours, seek support from others, and enjoy the present(s)!
Emily Perry is a Senior HR Professional in our People Team
