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Start small... and for free!

Start small... and for free!

Tuesday 14 May 2024

Start small... and for free!

Tuesday 14 May 2024


Numerous free activities are available this week as part of efforts to encourage us to move more to benefit our mental health.

The activities cover a breadth of interests, abilities, and accessibility needs with some very low impact sports included.

Some of the activities have a cost, and others ask for a donation, but the majority are free to everyone taking part. 

Activities scheduled for today alone include swimming, walking football, and rambling. 

Further activities, including yoga, tai chi, and table tennis are scheduled for the rest of the week.

Singing is included too - because, despite not being a sport, it is known to have positive benefits for both physical and mental health. 

Some of the week's free activities could even be described as 'physical exercise in disguise' with a couple of "green prescribing" events scheduled too. 

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Pictured: This week's schedule of events for Mental Health Awareness Week, put together with various local organisations. 

All of the above events are being offered for free, to anyone, during Mental Health Awareness Week which is this week, between 13 and 19 May. 

This year's theme is 'Movement: Moving more for our mental health'.

To support local awareness around mental health, and the intertwined benefits of good physical health, Guernsey Mind, the Health Improvement Commission, Bailiwick Social Prescribing, and the Guernsey Sports Commission are all working together to encourage everyone to "be more active and move more".

Why? 

Being active is proven to be important for both physical and mental health.

It triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, which can help alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Additionally, physical activity improves sleep, boosts energy levels, and enhances overall mood.

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal highlighted that exercise may be an equally effective treatment for depression as antidepressant medication for some individuals.

How?

The activities included in the week-long schedule above are all free to everyone to take part. 

This includes free swimming for everyone at Beau Sejour today.

Other events at Beau Sejour include Let's Go Mobility today at 13:00 and a Walking Netball session on Sunday at 08:45. 

Other activities are taking place around the island at locations including Styx, the Hougue du Pommier, Saumarez Park, the Peninsula Hotel, Candie Gardens, Pembroke, and more. 

Each of the organisations involved over the course of this week are sharing the same message, that getting active doesn't have to involve intense workouts or a gym membership.

"We have an incredible range of classes, groups, and activities suitable for all ages and abilities," says Jo Hollyer-Hill from Bailiwick Social Prescribing. "From dance and tai chi to walking groups and cycling clubs, there's something to get everyone moving."

READ MORE...

Mental Health Awareness Week launches

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