Encouraging Wellbeing at DES: A Harmony of Health and Happiness

Here at DES, we understand the importance of maintaining good health. That's why, last week, we dedicated a day to activities designed to encourage both support workers and supported employees to reflect on what health means to them.

Crafting Symbols of Thankfulness

We all know that mental health is just as important as physical health. Periods of relaxation and mindfulness are essential, allowing us to process the world around us and grow as individuals. Sometimes, it's necessary to take a step back, breathe, and appreciate the small things in life.

With this in mind, we began our day with gratitude stones. This artistic practice gave everyone the opportunity to express thankfulness. A lot of thought went into these works of art, and in the process, we discovered so many things to be grateful for.

Our creations ranged from simple designs to complex scenes, each uniquely capturing what we hold dear - from the joy of pets and family to the profound appreciation of life itself. Each of these stones is an important keepsake. Not only was the process of creating them beneficial for its meditative quality, but the finished works of art also have the power to remind us of the things in life that we may sometimes take for granted.

These small yet profound tokens now serve as daily reminders to cherish our blessings, reinforcing the essential balance between giving and receiving gratitude.

Finding Wellness Through Nature

Our commitment to physical health is equally abiding. In addition to ensuring our supported employees have access to a balanced diet during their workday, we also emphasise the importance of physical activity. Embracing this holistic approach, we recently ventured out on a guided walk by a tranquil forest, spurred by the great enthusiasm generated from a previous coastal walk. The opportunity to reconnect with nature was eagerly anticipated, and the experience certainly delivered.

Not just a physical activity, these walks offer a chance to connect with nature and each other, providing opportunities for laughter and shared stories. The benefits of being outdoors are numerous - it uplifts our spirits and boosts our energy levels. Beyond the physical exercise, these outings provide moments for reflection and inspiration.

For some, the challenge of venturing outdoors is significant, but embracing these challenges is integral to our ethos at DES. We are proud of how our supported employees have risen to these challenges, displaying remarkable enthusiasm and determination. Their ability to engage, reflect, and find joy in these moments is something we celebrate as a fundamental part of our commitment to enhancing physical health and wellbeing.

Charting a Course to Wellbeing

Wellbeing extends beyond a single day's focus; it is an ongoing journey. Recognising this, we are dedicated to the development of personalised wellbeing plans. Each plan is tailored to meet individual needs, with specific goals focusing on key areas such as physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and mental health.

By setting measurable goals, we're taking a vital first step towards sustainable improvement. Whether it's establishing a consistent sleep schedule to combat fatigue or committing to daily walks, these goals mark significant progress towards better health.

As we set and achieve these milestones, we engage in so much more than just basic self-care; we empower ourselves to become our best and most fulfilled selves.

This ongoing effort to enhance our wellbeing is just one of the ways we at DES commit to growth and development. By celebrating every step taken, every goal achieved, and every moment of joy along the way, we affirm our belief that each small, positive change paves the way for larger transformations, fostering a community where everyone thrives.