West Bank Residential Home takes great pride in creating and maintaining a nurturing environment where the mental and physical well-being of residents and staff is central to everyday life. Residents regularly get to enjoy the beauty of nature in the the West Bank sensory garden and frequently have visits from animals. Which are both soothing and stimulating for residents and boost positive feelings for everyone. Invigorating exercise and music also play a big part in residents daily lives.
However, this week was made extra special and nourishing. In honour of World Mental Health Day, the home embraced the opportunity to focus on mindfulness, connection, and holistic care.
The day began with a mindful walk through the crisp autumn air, offering everyone a moment to connect with nature and collect vibrant leaves for the Positivity Tree project. This wasn’t just a stroll but an opportunity to ground in the beauty of the changing seasons. Research shows that time spent outdoors can reduce anxiety and depression by up to 30%, and the peaceful stroll was a gentle reminder of nature’s healing power.
As leaves were collected for the Positivity Tree, the home came together to share stories and positive reflections. The Positivity Tree will serve as a powerful symbol of the strength and unity within the West Bank community, standing tall through life’s changing seasons, much like the residents themselves, who continue to grow and flourish.
The afternoon saw joyful chair exercises and a lively dance session led by Su from Music & Movement. These light exercises not only sparked laughter but also enhanced mental well-being, as even gentle movement is known to release endorphins and lift the spirits. Residents and staff ended the activities with a renewed sense of joy and connection.
Nutritious, wholesome meals rounded the day, providing both comfort and sustenance. With meals carefully planned to support both physical and mental health, the home ensures that everyone enjoys a balanced diet to nourish body and mind. A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and good sources of protein has been shown to improve mood and boost energy levels, further contributing to well-being.
Reflecting on the day, Home Manager Judy Powell shared,
“True care means nurturing the mind and spirit as well as the body. The Positivity Tree reminds us of the strength we find in coming together as a community, supporting one another through life’s challenges and celebrations. It’s in these simple yet powerful practices, like today’s walk and time spent together, that we see real well-being grow.”
“True care means nurturing the mind and spirit as well as the body. The Positivity Tree reminds us of the strength we find in coming together as a community, supporting one another through life’s challenges and celebrations. It’s in these simple yet powerful practices, like today’s walk and time spent together, that we see real well-being grow.”
World Mental Health Day was a beautiful reminder of the importance of staying active, embracing positivity, spending time in nature, and nourishing the body. West Bank Residential Home remains dedicated to supporting the well-being of its residents, ensuring that they thrive in a caring, supportive environment.