Moving more for our mental health
Every step can lead to improved mental health
In support of Mental Health Awareness Week (13th – 19th May 2024) we encourage you to get moving! We are going to dedicate the whole month of May to the Mental Health Foundation’s theme “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”.
It’s such an important time to highlight the connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Moving more isn’t just about getting fit, it’s about boosting hormones and keeping our minds healthy.
What happens when you move?
When you move your body, whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance session, a yoga class or sport – your brain releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin. These are like natural mood lifters, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression.
Plus, getting active can improve your sleep, boost your confidence, and give you a sense of accomplishment. Win-win!
It’s all about finding activities you enjoy and making movement a regular part of your routine.
Are you ready for our St Albans District Challenge?
Did you know that our district is just over
62 square miles?
That’s 161 square km and 178,746 steps to cover the whole perimeter!
Will take on our challenge this May to raise money in aid of local young people?
You don’t just have to walk, run or climb. There are lots of ways you can get moving:
- Get walking: Explore your neighbourhood with a leisurely walk. Bonus points for bringing along a friend or furry companion!
- Dance it out: Crank up your favourite tunes and have a dance at home. Let loose and shake off stresses.
- Try something new: Sign up for a dance class, martial arts session, or rock climbing adventure. Get out of your comfort zone.
- Get gardening: Not just great for your plants, it’s good for your mental health too – being outside, sunshine and movement.
- Take the stairs: Skip the lift and take the stairs whenever you can. It’s a simple way to put more movement into your day.
Support Youth Talk with your Challenge
Throughout May you can make a difference to your mental health by moving more and supporting your local mental health charity. Pick your challenge and set yourself a fundraising goal to help Youth Talk continue to provide free counselling to our local young people during an urgent time of need.
Last year we provided 3,833 FREE counselling sessions to young people who live, study or work in the St Albans district, but we must intensify our support as young people are currently waiting for our help.
- Pick a movement challenge and start boosting your activity levels.
- Fundraise for Youth Talk through JustGiving while you take on your challenge.
- Download and share our Mental Health Awareness Week assets on your own social media to encourage people to MOVE!
Who’s in?
Rachel Simkin
Rachel is our Fundraising Manager and will be using her days off to move for 178,746 steps! We worked out that this is the approximate perimeter of St Albans District.
Jen Smith
On May 21st you can join Jen, The Curious Mentor and lots of local businesses for a stroll around Clarence Park.
This event will finish at Verdi’s for cake, coffee and a catchup.
Kristina Snarskiene
Kristina of local business Buff & Bare, will be in training for the St Albans Half Marathon in June. She will be covering lots of miles over the month of May!
Great in 8
One for local women, you can sign up to an 8 week transformation with Barrie at Great in 8, you will be coached through movement and fitness.
Great in 8 is committed to supporting Mental Health Awareness by donating £50 to Youth Talk for every new client who joins them.
Karen Snook
Karen is our Marketing Executive and will be walking to and from school with her children every school day throughout May – that’s 1.6 miles a day.
Limited Edition Tops
Thank you to everyone who bought one of Youth Talk’s limited edition T-Shirts, Hoodie and Sweatshirt – all profits will help us provide free counselling to our young people. Wear it with pride and help us spread the word!
Gabriella’s Story
Leave a Reply