Timebanking – 5 Ways to Health and Well-being

Timebanking can mean different things to people. For some it’s a lifeline providing opportunities to connect socially with others or receiving a bit of help when its needed. For other’s it’s about learning new skills and sharing what they like doing best with people. Some just like helping others and get satisfaction from knowing they have helped someone. Whatever brings you to Timebanking you can get involved in any way and at any time you like.

There is good evidence that being active and feeling connected to others can improve a person’s health and wellbeing in everyday life. We have adopted five simple ways whereby Timebanking can improve health and well-being – think of it as your five a day for well-being!

1. Get Social

Connect with the people around you, family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, other Timebankers. Attend one or more of our weekly Timebank get togethers, talk to people, make someone smile, join in on a Timebank activity and make new friends.

2. Get Active

Participate in one or more of the many Timebanking activities such as gardening, walk with someone, dance, cycling, yoga, play a game or help out at an event – find something you enjoy and do more of it. Don’t worry about your physical fitness as Timebank will help you participate in any way you can

3. Get Learning

Try something new or rediscover something you use to love doing. Timebank has lots of opportunities for learning, with individuals who are willing to share their interests and hobbies with others. If you want to learn a new skill or brush up your existing ones, from languages, numeracy and literacy, fixing things, crafts to playing a musical instrument, get in touch. Sharing your skills and knowledge will make you feel more confident. Set yourself a challenge you will enjoy achieving and who knows where it may lead.

4. Give Back

Giving back can be a simple act of spending 10-minutes with someone having a chat over coffee or helping someone by carrying their shopping or simply giving a smile or a thank you to someone. It’s also about sharing your skills and knowledge with others. Giving time to help can go a long way to making someone’s day.

5. Take Notice

Take the time to look and be curious about your community, what does it need, how can you help? Be nice to yourself and others, take 10 minutes out to relax when you can, take a walk, have a cup of tea or read a book. Above all appreciate yourself, others, nature and your community. When we take time to look and take notice is when we can make a difference.