What Activities You Could Be Doing on Country to Improve Your Wellbeing

Feeling stressed? The solution could be to get out on Country.

This article is written in partnership with Cancer Council, in consultation with Whadjuk Yamatji Advocate for the First Nations Youth Advisory Group, Jonathon Garlett. 

During a busy time studying, it can sometimes be easy to forget to take care of yourself.

Forgot to drink water? Didn’t get enough sleep? Missed out on a healthy lunch? These are all things we should be doing to stay socially and mentally healthy.

And if you are a young First Nations person, one way to reduce stress is to head out on Country.

But even if you’re not Indigenous, some of these tips could be useful in helping you improve your wellbeing too 👇

Go for a relaxing walk.

One thing you can do when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed is get some light exercise in. You might not be a fan of any vigorous exercise and that’s ok. Even something as simple as going for a walk outside can calm you down and help you feel capable of handling the day ahead.

If you think you might have a stressful day ahead, you could always start your day with a relaxing walk. This way you start the day in the right headspace from the get-go.

Go fishing or camping.

Getting out on Country and and participating in activities like fishing or camping can be especially helpful for young First Nations people to feel more connected to themselves. It’s a great way to look after yourself and stay strong.

Living in the city or off Country can sometimes make you feel disconnected or lost. Getting away and doing some camping under the night sky and enjoying a peaceful time fishing might just be the thing you need.

Which brings us to…

Practice cultural activities on Country.

When we sat down with Whadjuk Yamatji Advocate for the First Nations Youth Advisory Group, Jonathon Garlett, he was actually on Country at Nyyerbup (Woodman Point in Western Australia).

He spent a lot of his childhood growing up practicing cultural activities on and off Country and it paid off.

“I got to experience all things firsthand from a cultural perspective,” he said.

“These are things from dances, singing, the cultural healing aspect to everything.

“I had a pretty good exposure to culture at a young age and that’s inspired me to do what I do today.”

Breathe in the fresh air.

Finally, if you are feeling overwhelmed and need a minute one of the best things you can do is get out and breathe in the fresh air.

That one little moment with nature might be just want you need to feel a bit more rejuvenated.

If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available now. Call Lifeline on 131 114, 13 Yarn on 13 92 76 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through.

Images: Supplied by Strong Spirit, Strong Mind.