Make time for yourself – and your community

The start of winter, which in Winnipeg feels like Nov. 1, provides the perfect opportunity to take stock of the past year, with just a taste of cold and snow to slow things down and before the craziness of Christmas quite begins.

Getting through our winter takes a lot, so taking care of yourself is important and from elections to celebrities, talk about mental health is all over the place — and for good reason.

However, that is not the whole picture. Caring for your well-being needs attention and energy but is also part of caring for the people and world around you.

We are all part of a community, even beyond our immediate family and friends. Not only is it important for us all to care for those who are vulnerable or need support, giving back with our time and our skills benefits those in need, as can also boost our own happiness and satisfaction.

Research shows that volunteering reduces stress, depression, and feelings of isolation and also increases confidence and happiness. Volunteering provides care and support, in addition to the benefits of building relationships and purpose, and it helps with university and scholarship applications or resumes for any young people with free time over the winter break or after school.  

Even once a month can make a big difference to an organization and to the people directly assisted and it creates a community of everyone involved. Taking a little time out to lend a hand is not that difficult, especially at one of the amazing non-profits right here in St. Vital.

There are many organizations that make a major difference to our local community, including the Youville Centre, (845 Dakota St.,a community health centre), and St.Amant (440 River Rd.), which offers volunteer positions in many areas, such as visiting, child care and gardening. For a fun and festive alternative, St.Amant also needs gift wrappers to raise donations at St. Vital Centre through the holidays.

Personal gifts, such as care baskets, hampers or even cookies are welcome anywhere from shelters or resource and health centres to nursing homes.

Even if you don’t have time to volunteer on an ongoing basis, the holiday season is a great time to find a way to give back, even if it is just finding time one day or evening. Helping to organize a toy or clothing drive will make a difference to our local community and to your own well-being.

Abigail Byle is a community correspondent for St Vital. Follow her on Twitter, @abbyinitio or email her, byle104@gmail.com