the Editor

Welcome to our wellbeing edit!

This issue is all about New Year, New Goals, and we’re starting strong with lots of practical help, advice and resources to help you with your wellbeing.

Most of us start the year with good intentions. We usually want to join a gym, eat healthier, spend more time with loved ones, travel more – the list is endless. But most resolutions tend to fizzle out a few days after starting them. I don’t know about you, but I often think of the start of a new year as my chance to hit the reset button and to start afresh. So, if you’re looking for some healthy habits for 2023, turn to page 6.

Research shows that listening to uplifting music can lessen the impact of depression and anxiety. So we asked some of our colleagues to share their favourite go-to tracks and created our own wellbeing playlist on Spotify. Scan the QR code on page 15 to download and listen to them!

On page 20, you’ll find our wellbeing calendar for 2023. Check with your manager to find out what local events are planned in your business area. If you’re feeling inspired, why not hold your own fundraising event?

I really hope you enjoy reading our articles and features. Perhaps you’ll be inspired by some of our employees who have shared their perfect escapes when they’re not at work. Or maybe you’ll be one of the lucky winners of our wellbeing competition.

So what does 2023 have in store for you? Get in contact and share your stories with us!

Melissa Moodey Corporate Communications Team

Wellbeing isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a way of life! We delve into some of the healthy habits to help kickstart your 2023.

After the festive period, when we’re used to indulging a little more than usual, the chance to refresh is often a welcome relief. While the New Year’s celebrations are now a distant memory, you’ve probably decided to make some positive changes and introduce some healthy habits into your life.

Perhaps you want to cut down on the caffeine (crazy, right?) and drink more water. Maybe you want to do more exercise and improve your fitness. Or is this the year you finally decide to learn a brand-new skill or revisit a longforgotten talent?

As you’ve probably noticed, this issue is dedicated to all things ‘ wellbeing,’ so we’re making it our mission to help you make the best possible start to 2023!

Prioritise Sleep

Do you get the recommended amount of sleep each night? According to the NHS, adults need at least 7 to 9 hours of restorative sleep a night. Not getting enough sleep can cause you to feel tired during the day and can impact how you go about your daily life. Check out page 22 for sleep tips!

Digital Detox

Endless scrolling on social media and checking your emails at all hours isn’t healthy. Excessive screen time can have a detrimental effect on your mental health. Instead, why not try a digital detox. Limit how long you spend on social media apps for a healthy habit.

Declutter Your Mind

Meditation is a proven stress reducer and mental health booster. Even just five minutes can allow you to clear your mind and focus on the present. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of mindfulness apps that can help you stay healthy and happy.

Give Back

Giving back and volunteering for a great cause can be rewarding. Norse employees can apply to take up to eight hours a year paid time off work to volunteer. Talk to your line manager and give your time to a cause close to your heart!

Connect With Nature

Getting outside and connecting with nature is proven to be good for you. Many of us spend our days in front of a screen or working indoors, so even going for just a brisk 10-minute walk can help you to refocus your mind, recentre and find calm.

Get Active

Whether you’re hitting the gym, getting in your 10,000 steps or simply adding an element of activity to your day, regular exercise is an excellent way to boost your wellbeing and mood. From ab crunches to Zumba, find an activity that you enjoy.

Practice Gratitude

Creating a positive outlook on life can be beneficial to your mental wellbeing. Often, we go about our daily lives without taking time to selfreflect. So why not make 2023 the year you stop and reflect on things that have gone well for you and areas you can improve?

Reduce Your Alcohol Intake

According to Dry January, 70% of participants who gave up booze for 30 days had much better sleep, and 66% had more energy. In addition, reducing the amount of alcohol you drink in one month can help to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of diabetes and help improve your wellbeing.

Increase Social Interaction

Spending quality time with friends and family not only helps to boost our mood and is better for our mental health. Social interaction has also been shown to help lower the risk of dementia as it is good for brain health. Plus, having a good time and laughing improves positivity and reduces stress!