Resolutions: How to stick to them with Self-Compassion

As we are 50 days into 2024, it's the perfect time to pause and reflect on our progress and the journey we've embarked upon. While setting goals for ourselves is an essential part of personal growth, it is equally important to approach them with empathy and compassion for ourselves. Often, in the fervour of the new year, we become so consumed by our newfound motivation, that we forget to be kind to ourselves when the excitement wears off.

Here are a few easy ways to keep your resolutions without self-blame -

Setting realistic goals -  It is important to set achievable goals, keeping your mental and physical limitations in mind. Breaking down goals into smaller pragmatic goals is a great way to avoid getting overwhelmed.

Setting mindful goals - being mindful of the goals you are setting and the motivation behind them is a great way to keep yourself from disappointment. Aligning your goals to your values is an important part of setting long-term goals

Celebrating progress - we often focus on perfection rather than progress. Celebrating even small wins can increase your motivation and avoid discouragement.

Create a support system - we are stronger together! Finding people to motivate and support you with your resolutions is a crucial part of keeping yourself determined. It is a great idea to find a group of people with similar goals or resolutions. 

Reflect and learn - setbacks are a part of the process, but it is crucial to understand they aren't failures. It is rather an opportunity to reflect and learn from your experiences to better yourself. 

Enjoy the process - while it is natural to get caught up in trying to achieve the goal, it is vital to find joy in what you are doing to keep doing it for the long term. 

Life is unpredictable, our situations and circumstances change ever so often leading us to be inconsistent with our goals. During these times, it is very important to be kind to ourselves with actions and words, just like how you would be to a friend. A little slump in the journey is not a failure, but rather a lesson to learn and grow from.

Self Care- The Key To A Kinder World

We live in a world that constantly demands us to be more perfect, more successful, and more productive. A stay-at-home parent is bombarded with conflicting messages to go out and financially contribute to the family while a working parent is told to contribute more to their child’s upbringing. This relentless pressure to be more and do more can take a toll on our physical and mental health.

What if being kind to ourselves sets off a chain reaction, inspiring us to be kinder towards those around us?

While bubble baths and manicures may be enjoyable, they are not the only way to practice self-care.

1. Carve out some time for yourself daily - Music, dance or long baths, whatever it may be, take some time out for yourself every day to do things you love.

2. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle - Eating healthy, being physically active and getting quality sleep are the key to a balanced life.

3. Practice mindfulness - Cultivate awareness in the present moment with meditation, breathing exercises, yoga and other practices.

4. Be grateful - Appreciate the positive aspects of your life. Keep a gratitude journal and notice the change in your mindset.

5. Engage in hobbies - Dedicate some time each week to pursue interests that bring you joy and fulfill your life.

6. Spend time with family and friends - We all need human connection, to love and be loved. Spending quality time with people who support and understand us is an integral part of self-care.

7. Practice self-compassion - Treat yourself the way you would treat others. Often, we tend to be overly critical and demanding of ourselves. Instead, let's be gentle and mindful of our inner voice.

8. Set clear boundaries - Be it in our personal life or professional life, we all struggle to set boundaries and say no. Learning to say no to things you don't have the bandwidth for, can protect your mental peace and energy.

9. Nature bathing - Spending time in nature away from your gadgets can go a long way in recharging your mental space.

10. Pamper yourself - Everybody deserves to treat themselves to things they love, every now and then. Take yourself shopping, get that massage you have been wanting, take yourself out to dinners, and do things that make you feel special.

We all have an array of responsibilities we have to tend to on a daily basis, and more often than not these responsibilities take priority over self-care. As a new mother myself, I quickly learned that self-care is essential for being a better parent and spouse. It helped me embrace myself, destress, effectively manage my emotions and be more present with my family. Self-care is not a luxury, but rather an investment in your happiness and health, it is an act of kindness towards yourself!

In a world that constantly tells you you are not enough, be resilient and say “I am more than enough”!

Do you have any self-care rituals you swear by? Please share with us in our comments section. Follow our socials and website to know more about Be Kind Movement programmes and campaigns.

Understanding Childhood Anxiety: Promoting Mental Well-being during Mental Health Awareness Week - 15-20 May 2023

Mental Health Awareness Week is a crucial time to shed light on an issue that affects countless individuals, including children, across the world. Anxiety, a condition marked by persistent feelings of worry and fear, can cast a heavy cloud over a child's life, hindering their happiness, growth, and potential. In this blog , we delve into the realm of childhood anxiety, exploring its impact and providing actionable ways to improve well-being and foster emotional resilience in young hearts.

Last week was the start of the SATs and other tests among school children, which are one of the causes of anxiety.

Anxiety among children has become alarmingly prevalent in the UK. The pressures of academic expectations, social interactions, and the ever-present influence of technology can exacerbate their fears and worries. The burden of anxiety can lead to isolation, low self-esteem, and hindered academic performance, robbing children of the carefree, joyful experiences that should define their formative years.

Be Kind Movement’s Kindness In School Programme™ (KISP) is tackling the growing mental health crisis among children and young people in the U.K through amplifying the transformative power of kindness for individuals and society through the medium of film. Our Kindness in School Programme™ (KISP), delivered to primary (ages 5-11) and secondary schools (ages 11-16), is used as an early intervention tool to promote kindness values which help to facilitate emotional intelligence skills in children and young people.

KISP is delivered through experiential workshops that involve students watching high impact short form visual content subsequently engaging in thought-provoking exercises, role plays, creative games, and cooperative learning activities. Workshops are delivered either face to face, in a classroom setting or virtually via Zoom. Click here to find out more or to book a workshop for your school. 

It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety in children to offer them the support they need. Common indicators may include excessive worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, frequent physical complaints (such as stomach aches or headaches), and avoidance of certain situations. By understanding and acknowledging these signs, we can begin to address the underlying causes and provide targeted assistance.

Organisations such as the Mental Health Foundation show that as many as 10% of children in the UK alone face anxiety. These are serious numbers.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, let us prioritize strategies that empower children to overcome anxiety and build emotional resilience. By creating a supportive environment, we can help them navigate the challenges they face and cultivate a stronger sense of self.

Here are some ways we can be more kind and aware of each other to help relieve anxiety among children.

1. Foster Healthy Relationships - Positive relationships play a vital role in a child's emotional well-being. Encourage meaningful connections with friends, family, and trusted adults. Supportive relationships provide a sense of belonging, boost self-esteem, and offer a reliable support system during challenging times.

2. Encourage Open Communication - Create a safe space for children to express their feelings openly without fear of judgment. Listen attentively, validate their emotions, and let them know they are not alone. Regular conversations about anxiety normalize the experience and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

3. Teach Coping Mechanisms - Equip children with practical tools to manage anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and engaging in physical activities can help them regulate their emotions and alleviate stress. Encourage them to identify their unique coping strategies and engage in activities they find calming and enjoyable.

4. Discuss mental health openly - In some cultures worldwide, suffering from anxiety and depression is seen as taboo. However, rather than dismissing mental illness as something negative, we can be more aware of the pain another person is going through. This can form part of the lesson plans and shared experiences. The BeKind Movement includes campaigns where facilitators go into schools to discuss how we can be kinder to each other.

5. Promote Self-care - Teach children the importance of self-care and prioritize activities that promote their well-being. Encourage regular exercise, sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and engaging in hobbies they enjoy. Nurturing their physical and emotional health is fundamental to managing anxiety effectively.

For more ideas on how you can share kindness, please take a moment to watch this short video. https://www.bekindmovement.co.uk/mental-health-awareness-week.

By recognizing the signs, fostering open communication, teaching coping mechanisms, nurturing healthy relationships, and promoting self-care, we can lay the foundation for emotional resilience. Together, we can empower young minds to overcome anxiety and embrace a brighter, happier future.

Remember, addressing childhood anxiety requires collective effort. Let us spread awareness, extend empathy, and champion the cause of mental health, not just during this awareness week, but throughout the year. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where children thrive, free from the suffocating grip of anxiety.

Are there other ways that you could be kinder to others this week and going forward? Please share with us in the comments, on our socials and contact us if you want to learn more about Be Kind Movement programmes and campaigns.

Run for BKM - Highlight Marathons for 2023

© Copyright Sluge G and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Hackney Half

The Hackney Half is a marathon that delivers the perfect blend of sport and local culture. As you’re guided down the streets of Hackney, you’ll be greeted by the carnival sounds of Mare Street as you cross historical landmarks like Broadway Market and Hackney Wicks, and buildings embellished with vibrant graffiti by talented local artists.

As part of the Hackney Moves festival, organised by Limelight Sports Club, the Hackney Half is an integral feature in a weekend of sport, movement, and entertainment, bringing people together from all walks of life.

Next event – 21st May 2023

© Copyright David Dixon and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Manchester Marathon

The Manchester Marathon, also known as the Adidas Manchester Marathon for 2023, is a marathon welcoming everyone from professional marathon runners to amateurs. Additionally, it’s recognised as the UK’s flattest marathon, making it a perfect fit for novice marathon runners eager to push their limits in a grand-scale race.

Since its modest beginnings in 2012 with fewer than 5,000 runners, the Manchester Marathon has flourished into a colossal event, drawing in over 24,000 participants a decade later. Notably, it is supported by 125,000 Mancunians lining the streets, passionately cheering on the runners, solidifying its status as one of the premier and largest marathons in the UK.

From under 5,000 runners participating in its first event in 2012 to over 24,000 10 years later, with 125,000 Mancunians lining the streets to cheer them on, the Manchester Marathon has grown to be one of the largest marathons in the UK. Today, the Manchester Marathon has evolved into a pivotal event that plays a vital role in supporting hundreds of charities, providing them with invaluable donations and exposure.

Next event – 16th April 2023

© Copyright Malc McDonald and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Brighton Marathon

Founded by former long-distance runner Tim Hitchings and local athlete Tom Naylor, the Brighton Marathon takes centre stage in a vibrant weekend of events offering a memorable experience to all attendees. Comprising of a full marathon, a 10k race, a 50k bike ride, and an exciting mini-mile race exclusively for participants under 18, the Brighton Marathon offers a wide array of events, ensuring that there is an opportunity for all demographics to actively participate.

Not only does the Brighton Marathon capture the hearts of sports enthusiasts, but it also showcases the charm of its iconic coastal city. Running along the vibrant promenade, participants are rewarded with scenic views of the stunning British coastline.

Next Event - 2nd April 2023

© Copyright Ian Usher and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Asics 10k

Situated in the bustling heart of central London, the Asics 10k race presents an appealing option for individuals seeking an exhilarating running experience without the extensive commitment typically required for a marathon.

Despite its shorter distance, the Asics 10k race treats participants to a captivating route that showcases London's iconic landmarks, including the illustrious Trafalgar Square, the majestic St Paul's Cathedral, and the iconic Big Ben.

Next event – 9th July 2023

When is the deadline to register?

Hackney Half – 4th May 2023

Manchester Marathon – 27th February 2023

Brighton Marathon – 27th February 2023

Asics 10K – 24th June 2023

How running with BKM will make a difference?

What makes running the Hackney Half, Manchester Marathon, Brighton Marathon, or Asics 10K for Be Kind Movement truly special is that you not only challenge yourself physically but also make a meaningful impact by supporting a charity dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence skills in children and young people by promoting kindness through the power of film.

Your fundraising will help BKM further develop its Kindness in School Programme which delivers kindness workshops that help build vital life skills such as resilience, compassion, gratitude, and mindfulness in children.

With a planned expansion into e-learning, funding will also contribute towards developing BKM’s e-learning platform, allowing children to access our Kindness programme not only physically, but virtually.

You'll be an integral component of the work that goes into introducing films for BKM, such as Savage and ITSY, that have received rave reviews at film festivals worldwide.

For more info on all the events that we're partnered with, please check out our “run for bkm” page.

Send a letter from Santa and support BKM!

This year, Sarah at PhotoFairytales has chosen Be Kind Movement as charity of the year to help spread some kindness this Christmas.

Sarah created individual, hand-signed high-quality letters and Telegrams from the real Father Christmas!

About the amazing letters…

For many years Father Christmas has chosen PhotoFairytales.co.uk as THE place to find one of his genuine, official letters or telegrams. Don't be fooled by other poor quality Santa letters: these are the real thing and absolutely gorgeous! Santa personally writes each one uniquely and individually for every child, and he hand signs every one too. Imagine their face when a special big red handwritten envelope is delivered this December from Father Christmas! The personalised Santa Letter Packs are very special and amazing value - limited edition, with only a few available, the Packs contain not only a letter but also a certificate, chocolate coin and 3 mystery gifts too! Santa also sends lovely personalised Telegrams too, and even beautiful personalised Letters for Christmas morning. Prices start at just £7.25, including free UK delivery. Find them all at www.photofairytales.co.uk until December 15th.

Supporting Be Kind Movement

Every year the sales of PhotoFairytales Santa Letters and Telegrams help to raise money for a UK charity. This year they are supporting Be Kind Movement, and will be making a 50p donation to us for every Letter and Telegram you buy! Thank you so much.

Visit the website today

https://www.photofairytales.co.uk/santaletter.html 

Women's Business Awards!

We are so proud to announce that Premila Puri has been nominated for the Positivity Award in the Small Business Awards!

A bit about the values of the Women’s Business Awards:

• Courageous leaders who are not afraid to challenge the norms of society and try something new.

• Believe in using generosity to empower the disempowered.

• Kindness and compassion, and being a life-giving voice that encourages and supports those around us.

• Creating intentional communities and strategic support systems with women who can challenge us to always be better.

• Strategically collaborate. With a powerful community comes a willingness to learn and truly invest in each other.

We hope that you follow any further announcements and be kind in giving your full support and encouragement to Premila in this nomination process.

Have a lovely summer!

Be kind this summer!

Summer is here and there are so many ways for you to help spread some kindness!

So what can you do to help?

1. Start simple with a friendly “hello” or a “how are you” to people you come across. Social interaction is key to creating a positive mindset.

2. Be inclusive. If you are going to the park with your friends make sure that no one is getting left out. You never know how much a kind gesture like this could mean to someone.

3. Offer to help clean up litter from your local parks or roads. A cleaner environment creates a better lifestyle.

4. Raise money for a charity of your choice. This could be achieved through bag packing in your local supermarket or running a lemonade stand for your neighbourhood. There’s no better way to be kind than to give back to those in need.

5. Donate any unwanted clothing/toys to charity shops or a local shelter. Allowing someone to experience they joy of something that you once experienced is a truly kind gesture.

We hope that you have an amazing summer and remember to always be kind!