Connect | Me Whakawhanaunga

Use today as a sign to arrange that outing or gathering with friends, participate in events that you might be finding an excuse to skip, or seek out opportunities for shared experiences.

Connect refers to making social connections or whakawhanaungatanga. A sense of feeling connected, loved or belonging with others is strongly associated with better wellbeing and other health outcomes by providing a sense of meaning, safety, support and purpose.

Below are a few ideas to help you me whakawhanaungatanga

1. Is there someone you haven’t spoken to in a while? Why not send a message, give them a call, have a korero, or arrange a catch up in person
2. Organise a potluck dinner or shared lunch with your whānau, friends or colleagues. Bring your favourite dish and connect over some delicious food
3. At the end of the day, ask your partner, children or friend what the best part of their day was and listen with interest when they respond
4. Introduce yourself to a new parent at your child’s school, new employee at work or a new neighbour in your community.
5. Have a device-free evening and bring out the board games
6. Have a think about whether there is someone in your life who may be going through a tough time. Reach out and ask them how they are, empathise and listen.