"The best moments in reading are when you come across something – a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things – that you'd thought special, particular to you. And here it is, set down by someone else, a person you've never met, maybe even someone long dead. And it's as if a hand has come out and taken yours."
- Alan Bennett, "The History Boys"
I am a great believer in the huge significance and importance of story and narrative - at all levels, the personal, the commercial and the political. Story, I would argue (and I do elsewhere) is probably more important than you think.
Along with Caroline Rance, ace historian, writer, speaker and podcaster we created a podcast looking at the writing of women at the turn of the 20th Century. This was a really dynamic time of social change and there were some excellent women writers. As the canon tends to be created and upheld by men, often the work of women falls by the wayside somewhat - so our podcast aims to celebrate those brilliant women that have gone before us. It is called She Wrote Too and is available on all the usual platforms.
Back to wellness, I genuinely believe that gaining knowledge and exploring the stories of the past is......GOOD FOR YOU! I'll explain -
- Perspective and Empathy: Learning about the experiences, struggles, and achievements of people from different times and cultures can help you develop a broader perspective on life. This can lead to greater empathy and understanding for others, which in turn can improve your relationships and overall emotional well-being.
- Resilience and Adaptation: History is full of stories of adversity and resilience. By studying how people faced challenges and overcame them, you can gain insights into coping mechanisms, problem-solving strategies, and the importance of adaptability. This can be inspiring and provide you with tools to navigate your own challenges.
- Cultural Awareness: Understanding historical events and cultural contexts can lead to a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences and perspectives. This awareness can help you feel more connected to the world around you and foster a sense of belonging.
- Gratitude and Perspective on Progress: Learning about the hardships that people faced in the past can make you appreciate the advancements and progress that society has achieved. It can help you develop a sense of gratitude for the opportunities and resources available to you today.
- Personal Identity: Exploring history can help you connect with your own cultural, familial, or societal roots. Understanding where you come from can contribute to a stronger sense of identity and belonging.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: History often involves analyzing complex situations, evaluating sources, and drawing conclusions based on available evidence. Engaging with historical materials can sharpen your critical thinking skills, which can be beneficial in various areas of your life.
- Mindfulness and Reflection: Studying history encourages introspection and reflection as you ponder the decisions, actions, and consequences of individuals and societies. This reflective practice can promote mindfulness and self-awareness.
- Intellectual Stimulation: Engaging with history requires you to process and understand complex narratives, which can provide mental stimulation and help keep your brain active.
- Connection to the Past: Learning about the past allows you to connect with the stories of those who came before you. This connection can provide a sense of continuity and remind you that you are part of a larger human story.
- Hobby and Leisure: Engaging with history can be a fulfilling hobby that offers a sense of accomplishment and joy. Whether you're reading historical books, watching documentaries, visiting museums, or participating in historical reenactments, these activities can provide a positive and meaningful way to spend your leisure time.
Remember, the key to benefiting from history's positive impacts on your well-being lies in how you engage with it. Approach it with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a genuine curiosity about the past and its relevance to your life today.
