Keeping well in wartime
I took a recent visit to Bletchley Park, an English country house and estate that became the principal centre of allied code-breaking during the Second World War.
If you haven’t watched ‘The Imitation Game’ yet, I highly recommend it. It is based on a true story which centres around Alan Turing and other highly skilled and tenacious people, who through their efforts helped to shorten the World War by almost 2 years due to their amazing code-breaking skills.
Bletchley Park was worth the visit and provided a fascinating understanding of a tumultuous time in history, showcasing the determination, resilience and brilliance of all those involved.
However, it was in the gift shop where I noticed a leaflet titled ‘How to keep well in Wartime’. Which was first published in 1943 by Crown Copyright, issued for the Ministry of Health and the Central Council for Health Education. I was intrigued and curious as to how the information and advice may differ too today.
With this curiosity, I flicked through the pages and was astounded- the key information was the same as it was today. Perhaps it’s just me, but after 80 years, I thought that things may be different? Especially considering that the Second World War was the challenging time in our generation. Chapter 7, entitled ‘A word to those who worry’ began with ‘Generally speaking, before the war there was an increase in the number of worriers, of people who felt anxious about nothing in particular.’ An interesting perspective of anxiety and worry prior to the war?
The chapter continues to provide advice and guidance for understanding why we might worry, how ‘worrying parents make a nervy child’ and showing patience and tact to those who worry.
There are also chapters that describe:
- How to maintain regular in wellbeing habits and self-discipline
- Getting enough sleep
- Getting fresh air and sunshine
- Keeping the mind and body active
- Eating healthily
- Being moderate in all things, including smoking and drinking alcohol
Whilst there are a couple of other chapters on hygiene and stopping germs, I think you would agree that the wisdom of eighty years ago, is as relevant then as it is today and who knows, possibly 80 years in the future?
Pupils and staff wellbeing is as important today as it was during one of the most challenging times in history. I will finish with the advice in Chapter 10 entitled; Help yourself to be well. ‘To get the most out of life you must put the most into it. To live, to love, to laugh, to labour to the fulness of your capacity, get fit and keep fit.’
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