5 Wellbeing Factors Boosting the Brain

When it comes to looking after our wellbeing, the brain plays a major role. Wellbeing contributes to better cognitive health, more resilient emotion regulation systems and healthier brain function. The five factors all boost the brain in distinctive ways. The table below demonstrates this: 

5 FACTORS OF WELLBEING DETAILED 

1. When we Connect it: 

• Reduces stress & loneliness: Social connection buffers against stress and enhances emotional regulation systems in the brain.
• Boosts reward circuitry: Positive interactions activate neural reward pathways and increase neurotransmitters linked to wellbeing (like dopamine and oxytocin).
• Strengthens resilience: Having supportive relationships improves coping and decreases risk of depression and anxiety. 

2. When we are Active (Physical Exercise) it:

• Improves mood and stress resilience: Exercise stimulates release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. Chemicals linked with positive mood and reduced anxiety.
• Boosts cognitive function: Regular exercise supports memory, attention and learning by enhancing blood flow and neuroplasticity.
• Strengthens mental wellbeing: Physical activity has a positive causal relationship with wellbeing, self-esteem, self-efficacy and social connection.

3. When we apply Mindfulness / Awareness it:

• Reduces stress & anxiety: Mindfulness activates brain regions involved in emotional regulation and executive control.
• Improves attention & focus: Regular mindfulness practice strengthens networks involved in sustained attention and reduces mind-wandering.
• Enhances emotional balance: Being mindful helps people respond more flexibly to stress which supports long-term mental resilience.

4. When we keep Learning &  apply Skill Development it:

• Boosts cognitive reserve: Learning stimulates neural connections, supports memory and delays cognitive decline.
• Increases self-confidence & purpose: Mastering new skills builds self-efficacy and a sense of accomplishment.
• Enhances neuroplasticity: The brain remains adaptable and resilient when continuously challenged.

5. Showing Kindness / Contribution to Others :

• Activates reward pathways: Acts of giving trigger brain reward systems, increasing positive emotions and reducing stress.
• Strengthens social bonds: Helping others fosters community, mutual support, and sense of belonging.
• Enhances purpose & meaning: Contributing to others supports a sense of value and life meaning.

WHAT WELLBEING FACTOR WILL YOU BE IMPLEMENTING MORE ?