World Wellbeing Week and Why It Matters

World Wellbeing Week is a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the many ways we can nurture our wellbeing. For survivors of sexual violence, wellbeing can feel complicated or even out of reach—but it is possible, and you are worthy of it. This week is an invitation to gently explore what wellbeing means for you, wherever you are on your healing journey.

What Is Wellbeing?

Official Definition:

Wellbeing is often defined as a holistic state of physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s about feeling safe, healthy, connected, and able to enjoy life’s moments—big and small.

In Everyday Language:

Wellbeing isn’t about having a perfect life or never feeling pain. It’s about finding moments of peace, connection, and hope—even on the hardest days. For many survivors, wellbeing means having the space to breathe, to rest, and to feel just a little bit more like yourself.

Wellbeing for Survivors: What Makes It Unique?

Wellbeing isn’t about having a perfect life or never feeling pain. It’s about finding moments of peace, connection, and hope—even on the hardest days. For many survivors, wellbeing means having the space to breathe, to rest, and to feel just a little bit more like yourself.

Trauma can turn the world upside down. The things that once brought comfort might now feel challenging. “Normal” wellbeing advice—like “just relax” or “think positive”—can feel unhelpful or even impossible.

For survivors, wellbeing is often about:

• Reclaiming a sense of safety—in your body, mind, and environment
• Allowing yourself to feel—without judgement or pressure
• Redefining what self-care looks like—sometimes it’s a cup of tea, a walk, or simply saying “no”
• Honouring your healing pace—there is no one-size-fits-all

It’s important to remember: your wellbeing is valid, even if it looks different from others’.

Steps Survivors Can Take to Prioritise Wellbeing

Wellbeing is built on small, everyday actions. Here are some gentle, trauma-informed steps you can try:

• Gentle Self-Care:
  • Drink water, nourish your body, rest when you can
  • Take a few moments each day for yourself, even if it’s just sitting quietly
• Mindfulness and Grounding:
  • Practice being present—notice the feeling of your feet on the ground, or your breath moving in and out
  • Try grounding exercises, like naming five things you can see or hear
• Creative Expression:
  • Journal, draw, or create music—whatever helps you process your feelings safely
• Building Connection:
  • Reach out to a trusted friend or join a supportive community (like our Sanctuary Membership)
  • Remember: you don’t have to do this alone
• Setting Boundaries:
  • Protect your time and energy—say “no” when you need to, and honour your limits
• Celebrating Small Wins:
  • Every step forward counts, no matter how small. Acknowledge your courage and progress

Healing is not a straight line, and wellbeing is not a destination—it’s a practice. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. You are strong for showing up for yourself, even when it feels tough. You are not alone in this.

This World Wellbeing Week, I invite you to take just one small step for your wellbeing—whatever that looks like today. Maybe it’s reaching out for support, joining our community, or simply giving yourself a moment of kindness.

Remember: it gets better, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re looking for ongoing support, our Sanctuary Membership is here for you—offering guided practices, community, and a safe space to heal.