Practical ways to care for your mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health
A message from the FNHA's Mental Health and Wellness Team and Office of the Chief Medical Officer
Happy Spring Break to all First Nations youth in BC!
First Nations people recognize spring as a time of reemergence and renewal, as we come out of the winter season where the white blanket covered the land. It is a time that marks the end of the snowy season and the transition to the waking-up season. This time is filled with community gatherings, the harvesting of medicines, the return of certain plants and animals, and being on the land and in the water.
We want to encourage you, as First Nations youth, to observe the transformation of the land and what is around you. Take time on your well-deserved spring break to notice the changes in your environment that can assist you in taking care of your wellness. Enjoy a restful, fun-filled break, and make the most of this time away from studying.
Spring Break is an opportunity for self-reflection and a great time to set or continue with your goals for the school year. Don't forget to celebrate the progress you've made so far, and try to build special moments with your friends, family, and community. However you choose to spend the week, we encourage you to focus on activities that support your mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical wellness.
Here are a few suggestions to help you get into Spring Break mode!
Take care of your mind
- Give yourself time to rest and unplug from school stress.
- Try activities that help you feel grounded, such as journalling, listening to traditional and other types of music, drawing, beading, singing, drumming, and walking in nature.
- Consider taking a break from screens and social media. Being present and in the moment is a teaching we all should practise more often.
- If things feel overwhelming, reach out to someone you trust or check out our Youth Mental Health and Wellness page. This page also includes support for questions about substance use. Remember, asking for help is a strength!
Check In with Your Emotions
- Be mindful of how you're feeling throughout the week.
- Use your senses to stay present. For example, ground yourself by feeling the earth beneath your feet, going for a walk, taking in the smells around you, or spending time in self‑reflection.
- Practise recognizing and naming your emotions.
- Talk to a trusted friend, family member, Elder, or mentor if something is on your mind.
Nurture your spirit
- Take a few quiet moments for prayer, reflection and gratitude for the gifts you have received in your life.
- Spend time in nature. Being on the land or by the water – and/or with living things such as plants, birds, or animals, especially pets, can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting mood, cognitive function, and focus.
- If possible, participate in cultural activities in your community that help you feel a sense of belonging and connectedness to our teachings.
- Joy being a great medicine, make space for joy — laughter, creativity, and fun are great ways to recharge emotionally.
Move your body & eat healthy.
- Get outdoors for some fresh air. Go for walks, start planting your plant medicine seedlings, ride your bike, play games outside, stay active with your regular sport or try a new sport, or simply stretch your body.
- Drink water, eat food that fuels you, including traditional foods, and get plenty of sleep — your body will thank you!
Most of all, be gentle with yourself! You are worth it!
Enjoy this time at your own pace. Rest when you need to, have fun when you can, and remember that your wholistic wellness is important. If you ever need support, you're not alone — reach out to someone, there are people who want to help.
We wish you a safe, fun, and refreshing Spring Break!
