What is success?
When do we see success in ourselves or those around us?
Are we focused on money, fame, family, happiness?
How do we measure success as a society or as an individual?
In Part One we looked at success and, how COVID has provided positive outcomes. Then focused on Healthcare provision, Science, and Health Charities. If you missed it you can view it here.
In Part Two we’ll continue with Sport/Exercise, the way our TV viewing has changed and E-Learning materials utilised to maximum effect.
Part Three Coincides with the launch of the Time To Heal Physical Health & Well-Being Page, which can be accessed here. We’ll cover some self care, a love of nature and Climate Change
A quick recap before we launch into the main event!
Many may be wondering why we are attributing success with the COVID pandemic which has caused so much heart ache, loss, emotion, mental health problems and of cause the horrendous loss of life. As we explored success comes in many ways and the definition of success is very much an individual feeling which should never be dismissed. Pure and simple it’s the achievement, acknowledgement or completion of something unique within ourselves and our lives that leaves us feeling like we have met our goal, no matter how big or small.
In Part One the focus was on healthcare provision, the science behind the COVID vaccination, an awareness of the way that health charities have adapted to continue supporting those with LTHC’s/Disabilities. A sense of what we have both personally and within our local open spaces. A solidarity between different social groups and highlighting of those in need and those who could adapt to make things better. The simpler things in life that we are now more acutely aware of and have increased gratitude.
Exercise Opportunities
Councils, personal trainers and coaches have been trying to keep us exercising. Working across the borders of our Counties has to be something of huge success. With YouTube programmes widely available it doesn’t matter where you live! Plus these sessions are still live and importantly there for anyone struggling to adapt back to normal post lockdown activities outside of the home, easing the pressure and giving far more options and variety than ever before.
The Rise of Virtual Challenges,
Enter The We Are Undefeatables Re-launch with the Home Games adding to their array of opportunities specifically for those with LTHC’s and Disabilities.
‘.. a virtual event and training schedule modelled on a decathlon, with new fun and active games for people living with long term health conditions to take part in each week. Led by decorated Paralympians Dame Sarah Storey and Lauren Rowles MBE, two teams were taken through 10 weeks of training, culminating in a fun head to head competition, where participants could see how far they had come’.(https://weareundefeatable.co.uk/homegames)
Participation in this event brought the Team Captains some real pleasure at what their teams were able to achieve and the methods used to get there!
Storey is quoted as;
‘I was so proud to be asked to be a part of The Home Games, meeting the team members and watching them grow in confidence and ability over the 10 weeks was inspiring. It shows that you don’t need gym equipment to get moving, some tins of beans or a chair can create a workout that is both active and fun’.
Whilst Rowles adds;
‘The Home Games brought people from across the country together and showed how anyone can find an activity that suits them and their condition. What brought everyone so much joy, was seeing them all come together as a team and form lasting connections through the Games, but also the way they also supported each other through the challenges they face in their personal lives.
Now the We Are Undefeatables team are encouraging you to create your own Home Games, just because the Paralympics are over doesn’t mean they can’t still inspire others. There are some top tips on how to make this happen!
‘Ask your friends and family if they’d like to get involved and find a regular time to catch up online and get active together
Grab some common household items to make a game out of - for example you could use a rolled up pair of socks and a laundry basket, or a pillow from the sofa to turn into a javelin
Draw up some simple goals for people to aim for i.e. amount of baskets scored or distance to throw
Train together and share your enjoyment
Arrange a time to split into two teams and challenge each other online to beat the other
But most of all make sure you have fun!’ (https://weareundefeatable.co.uk/homegames)
There are also some other great links available to organisations that can help you get moving with others.
Rainbow Active Series - Virtual Exercise Challenge
In need of some inspiration? Then The Rainbow Active Series could be just what you are looking for. So how does it work? Every month you can challenge yourself to run, cycle or walk your target distance. At the end of the month you get an exclusive medal or pin badge to celebrate your achievement. You’ll become part of a community that aim to raise funds for hospitals across the UK. The Registration Page tells you everything you need to know. Including the fact that there are only 1,000 places available each month. There is a cost involved and the opportunity to make a donation. They even have an Official Shop so you can exercise in style and support the NHS at the same time. There are even options for corporate entry to support your workforce or compete in a team!
E-learning
Providers supporting with the opportunity to continue learning, re-training and re-capping whilst at home. Allowing everyone to increase their knowledge or to take up new hobbies and past times. For example Cardiac Arrest Training came from the dramatic effect of Erikssen’s collapse on the football field, MIND used the opportunity to provide a Mental Health Awareness Course and SwimEngland got Young Leaders, Officials and Coaches onto the first levels of qualifications to maintain swimming connections in a positive light.
Television
On a positive note it also provided captive Audiences for the support and appreciation of material such as climate change, the celebration of inspirational stories, along with comfort and company for many. The type of programme available due to pandemic restrictions on filming has been very different in terms of experience. Whilst many have plumped for favourites on Netflix, Disney+ and the like, other have taken to nature programmes, Scenic Railways, Baking and of course sports coverage. Interestingly, Have our Viewing Habits Changed For Good reports that over lockdown news consumption increased along with streaming but post lockdown news has returned back to normal but streaming has continued. This has also given consumers a wider choice of viewings and built competition between broadcasting companies.
Take Grand Prix coverage on Channel 4 as an example. Normally the preview would include reporters charging up and down the pit lane swarming with people, interviews with stars there to watch or trying to get the few last words from team members and drivers as they prepare to start. Instead we now have great insights into the world of Grand Prix racing. Information on strategy, weather, driver profiles and interviews, links with the team principles in 1-1 discussions. A whole new world as we get to know and understand what really goes on behind the scenes.
The fascination of natural world programmes with intriguing photographic displays of coral growing or plants sprouting. Even Strictly is joining in! Showing steps in slow sequence, spreading out the dances but encouraging the audiences to appreciate what the judge are really looking for. Utilising these shows and sport to highlight and challenge beliefs around racism and the LGBT community.
So we come to an end for now. Those still struggling can take time in virtual exercise challenges, a real benefit for so many. For many more/perhaps even the same people, the TV itself is a comfort, a voice to listen to and engage with, filling those endless hours. The additional learning experiences we have access to via these programmes and through the ease of access to relevant and well developed courses and life skill courses, can all contribute to shape lives and build some confidence in a world that holds so much uncertainty.
We Are Undefeatables Campaign - Home Games
Rainbow Series - Product Registration
The Rainbow Active Series - Homepage
The Rainbow Active Shop
The Conversation - Have TV Viewing Habits Changed For The Good?