Transitioning from service to civilian life can be a challenging but also an exciting process. Sometimes after leaving the services, you can feel isolated, lost, or struggling to find your place in civilian life. If this is you, fear not!

Here are 7 ways to improve your well-being and help make the transition to civilian life a little easier:

1. Get active:

Exercise has many benefits on improving your well-being and is an excellent way to boost your mood, improve your physical health, and reduce stress. Try something new like rock climbing, dance lessons, or yoga, and see what you like best. You'll be surprised how much fun you can have while getting fit! We run regular physical fitness activities at locations around the country you can join in on – whether it be walking, running, hiking, yoga and more! We make them fun, suitable for a variety of fitness levels and we help you build a sense of community whilst you enjoy the activities. You can reap the benefits of physical fitness activities plus make new friends as part of our welcoming community.

2. Volunteer:

Even the smallest act can count, whether it’s a smile, a thank you, or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering within your local community, can improve your wellbeing and help you build new social networks. Helping others can be a great way to give back, meet new people, and feel good about yourself. Find a cause you're passionate about and volunteer your time and talents. You'll be surprised at how rewarding it can be!

We recognise that volunteering has many benefits for the well-being of our veteran and first responder community so we run regular volunteering events for our members. Whether it be a park clean-up afternoon, a backyard blitz for someone in need, a tree planting day, helping out a worthwhile community organisation and more!

We are also looking for volunteer Event Leaders to represent us at our events. As an Event Leader, you'll have the chance to give back to your fellow Buddy Up members. And the best part? It's only a couple of hours of your time, with no ongoing commitment required! You’ll get perks such as a free entry to the event and a free Buddy Up t-shirt to keep as a souvenir!

3. Connect with others:

Building relationships with others can improve your well-being and provide a sense of belonging, increase social support, and boost your mood. Whether you join a group or club, volunteer, or simply make time for catch-ups with friends and family, connecting with others can help you feel connected, valued, and appreciated, which are all key components of overall well-being. So don't be afraid to reach out, join in, and make some new friends! With the right community and support network, you can lead a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

By joining us, you’ll be surrounded by others who have gone through the transition out of service life, and understand and can empathise with what you're going through. From fun fitness events to volunteer opportunities, there are plenty of ways to get involved and start building meaningful relationships.

4. Take a break and recharge:

Scheduling a vacation or taking a mental health day can be a great way to recharge and reduce stress. Taking a break from the demands of daily life can help clear your mind, refresh your perspective, and improve your overall well-being. Whether you plan a trip, indulge in a spa day, or simply spend time relaxing at home, taking time for yourself can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and give you the energy and motivation to tackle life's challenges with renewed vigor. By scheduling a vacation or taking a mental health day, you are making a commitment to your own self-care and well-being, which is an important step in leading a happy and healthy life.

5. Try mindfulness practices:

Mindfulness practice is a great way to improve your well-being. By focusing on the present moment, deep breathing, and slow movements, mindfulness practices can help calm your mind, reduce physical tension, and create a sense of inner peace and relaxation. And the best part? Regular practice of mindfulness meditation, yoga, or tai chi can also give your brain a workout, increase your resilience to stress, and enhance your overall well-being.

So why not join us for some of our yoga and mindfulness events? Our events are designed to be fun, relaxing, and open to all levels of experience.

6. Learn something new:

Learning something new can be a great way to challenge your brain, meet new people, and have fun! Whether you're a fan of arts and crafts, sports, or gaming, there's a hobby out there for you. So, find one that interests you and get started and go ahead and challenge yourself to learn something new! We run events where you can learn something new and exciting – such as sailing, equine therapy or an arts and craft classes and more! Keep an eye out for our events near you.

7. Get out in nature:

Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for your mental and physical well-being. Immersing yourself in the beauty of nature can reduce stress, improve focus, boost your mood, and promote feelings of calm and relaxation. So go for a hike, have a picnic in the park, or simply take a walk around your neighbourhood and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for our walking and running events to get active, connect with other members and enjoy getting out in nature at the same time!

By incorporating these activities into your routine, you can help improve your well-being after leaving service and build a happy, healthy life.*

Join us as a member to help improve your well-being:

If you're looking to boost your well-being after leaving service life, Buddy Up is the place for you! By joining our family of like-minded people, you'll get to experience the best of fitness, socialising, and volunteering all in one.

So, what are you waiting for? Join our Buddy Up family and experience the ultimate trifecta of fitness, fun, and fulfilment. Let's improve your well-being together!

Current and ex-serving defence members, first responders and their families are welcome to join us as a member – lifetime membership is FREE and gives you access to all our free or subsidised fitness, social and volunteering events Australia-wide. JOIN HERE.

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*This article is not meant to replace health or medical advice - this article is general in nature. Please seek the help of a health or medical professional.