Happy New Year
Ringing in the Japanese New Year with traditional customs The New Year in Japan, or Oshogatsu.
My whanau have just returned from an amazing holiday in Japan.
First Sunrise
Praying to Japan's first sunrise in the New Year, known as Hatsuhinode, is believed to be auspicious as it symbolises a new start and opportunity for the year ahead. We flocked with many people to the sunrise hotspots on January 1st to reflect and to give thanks.
Sunrise in Japan (Photo: The View from the very peak of Mt. Fuji).
The new year is here. For a lot of people, it’s a time to hit the reset button on fitness and nutrition, let go of negative habits and expand career or travel goals. It’s also a great opportunity to prioritize your mental health.
We know that mental health treatment can be expensive and time-consuming.
 | Practice self-acceptance. New Year’s resolutions often focus on improving some part of who we are, such as our physical appearance. Instead of trying to change, use the new year as an opportunity to practice self-acceptance and self-love. |
 | Move your body. Exercising for at least 30 minutes every day can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Go for a walk, take a fitness class or play a sport with friends and family. |
 | Be grateful. Research shows that practicing gratitude every day can invoke feelings of thankfulness and optimism that make managing challenges easier. |
 | Take Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa. Mental Health First Aid teaches people the signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges and substance use disorders and how to manage them through professional help and self-care. Register to attend the MHFA Workshop and learn more about how you can take care of your mental health in the new year. |
 | Practice self-acceptance. New Year’s resolutions often focus on improving some part of who we are, such as our physical appearance. Instead of trying to change, use the new year as an opportunity to practice self-acceptance and self-love. |
Do you want support in 2024 to hit the reset button on Mental Wellness within the Workplace?
Here’s how can you do this …
Here’s three ways I can help you to proactively implement Mental Health First Aid and Wellness into your business:
Public2-day MHFA workshop | |
Learn more about the different course delivery options for your workplace and community | This two-day Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa Workshop (licenced by Te Pou) can be tailored for your organisation – ie apply your company values and current wellbeing practices. Would like to know how to book an inhouse Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa Workshop? Get in touch. Nothing is impossible, nationally. |
If we haven’t already, let's connect on LinkedIn. This is where I hang out mostly, sharing heaps of resources, knowledge and info on the free workshops I run. |
Thank you all for your hard work and dedication to making your community a healthier and safer place for people facing mental health and addiction challenges. We hope you have a happy and safe New Year!
