Regular movement is one of the most important ways we can help protect our mental health, according to Kate Robinson, the Physical Activity and Sport Development Officer. She stresses that even a short burst of 10 minutes of brisk walking can boost our mood and increase our mental alertness and energy, no matter our age. Robinson had the chance to share her message while visiting a very special group of men who meet weekly for a cuppa tea, some breakfast, and a good chin wag, all to prevent isolation.
Robinson visited the Ellergreen Community Centre, where she was welcomed by these special men. They have created a safe space for men to come and chat about whatever is on their mind without judgment or expectations. The group has become a tight community of friends who check in on each other outside of their sessions. After five years of meeting and not knowing anyone, they now look forward to their weekly sessions together.
At the end of their walk, one man shared how much walking clears his head. He finds that going on a walk helps him to organize his thoughts and write things down along the way. “By the time I get home, I feel so much clearer,” he said. Robinson’s message was to encourage people to get moving more, and she gave six ideas to get started:
– Set yourself small goals when you begin to move more for your mental health.
– If you sit for large periods of time, take regular breaks to stretch your body.
– Embrace your inner child and find the joy in movement.
– Use opportunities for movement to meet new people.
– Taking time to rest is important if you’ve been using up a lot of energy.
– Be kind to yourself and don’t feel pressured to keep up with someone else.
To find more support and tips on mental health, visit the Kind To Your Mind Liverpool website or the NHS website for mental health services
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