[Rebecca]

As we reflect on Mental Health Awareness Week that has just passed - we're thinking about the theme, which was MOVEMENT.

Movement is something that is so easy, and you can do as much or as little as you want.

Do What is Right for You

Movement in some way or another is accessible for most of us, however there are many that face overwhelming barriers to movement.

Despite the evidence that keeping physically active can promote good mental health, we know there are barriers preventing us doing so, like accessibility, time, money, body image, lack of open space, or the negative connotations we might commonly associated with ‘exercise’ itself.

Movement doesn’t need to look like going to the gym, running a marathon or taking part in a team sport – and it doesn’t need to cost the earth. It can be as simple as stepping off the bus a stop early, moving a 1-2-1 meeting to a walking call, giving your child a push on a park swing after school, or dancing in your kitchen while you cook dinner. (Ref: MentalHealth-UK.org)

Yet the thought of it can be daunting. Even if it is light stretching, a very slow/short walk, or incorporating it into your every day, like cycling to work instead of driving.

Why does Movement Matter?

Being physically active is great for our bodies and our minds.

Exercise has been proven to reduce anxiety and depression, and it can help us to prevent physical illnesses. (Ref: MentalHealth-UK.org)

Research by MentalHealth-UK.org shows that 56% of people found that exercising regularly helped them to alleviate stress and prevent burnout in their lives.

What are the Benefits of Exercise?

Mental Health Charity Mind.org.uk states the following benefits that physical activity has on both your mental & physical health:

Managing stress
Improving sleep
Improving your mood
Improving confidence
Connecting with nature
Socialising and meeting new people
Managing symptoms of depression and anxiety
Memory and brain functioning
Heart, muscle and bone health
Reducing the risk of developing some long-term health conditions, such as heart disease

What do you do to feel good? Have you got any tips you would like to share that may help/inspire the rest of our members? Pop them below 👇🤩🤗