Poem: Being Well

I wrote this poem whilst comnuting on the train back from work last night.  Its aim is to help deepen our understanding of, and explore the idea of Being Well; To help recognise that our energy, our resilience, and our ability to stay grounded are shaped not only by our own choices, but also by the quiet sacrifices of others. It honours the unseen efforts of parents, teachers, carers, colleagues and friends — and the often-overlooked sacrifices we make ourselves.

It is a reminder that replenishing our energy is not selfish; It is an act of renewal, gratitude and self-respect. May this poem help readers pause, breathe, and remember that Being Well is a shared, compassionate journey.

It is inspired by my colleagues Marcia Pires FHEA, Sarah Jane Pryce-Compson MSc, Susan Aufiero and Professor Dawne Irving-Bell 

... and dedicated to my dear son Deeshana Kariyawasam  💕

Being Well

Being well…

begins with noticing

the ebb and flow of energy

within your own chest -

how your breath falters

when you push too hard,

and how it steadies

when you finally make time to rest.

It is the courage

to fill your cup again

without apology - 

through quiet mornings,

a short walk in soft light,

a moment of prayer,

a cup of tea shared

with someone who truly understands.

Being well…

is gratitude in motion - 

a gentle bow

to the sacrifices of others:

the parent who worked late

so you could dream freely,

the friend who stayed awake

just to listen,

the colleague who carried extra weight

so your spirit wouldn’t break.

And it is remembering

your own sacrifices too -

the nights you held yourself together

when no one knew,

the responsibilities you shouldered

without complaint,

the tears you swallowed

so others could feel safe.

Being well…

is recognising all of this

with tenderness,

and letting gratitude

soften the edges of your day.

It is choosing

to replenish,

to restore,

to rise slowly -

knowing that each small act

of kindness to yourself

helps you walk more lightly

in a world that needs your calm.

Being well…

is not a destination - 

it is a returning,

a remembering,

a quiet vow

to honour the sacred balance

between what you give

and what you need.

Despite what is going on around you,

May you wake each day

renewed,

grateful,

and spacious enough

to continue becoming

who you were always meant to be.

© Adisha Kariyawasam

22 November 2025

#WellbeingMatters 🌿

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