Let’s BE ACTIVE
But Why …….. ?
As we know Being Active is so important for our physical health, as it can boost our immune systems and reduce the risks associated with many physical health problems. However, Being Active is just as important and beneficial for our mental health too!
As life in these unprecedented times has been challenging and more so for people struggling with their mental health, we at Derby City Life Links have been trying to provide substantial support being mindful of the government’s guidelines. As part of this effort, for the Mental Health Awareness Week commencing on the 18th of May we are running online sessions each day till the 22nd of May. Please come and join in the talks, or check back during the week for reflections.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2020 is all about KINDNESS, and today we want to discuss how Being Active is one way of showing ourselves the care and kindness we deserve.
Evidence shows that Being Active, even for just 15-30 minutes each day, can have positive effects on our mental health such as reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, as well as helping to improve mood, sleep and memory. Whether we are active around the home, enjoy walks in our local area, or keep fit with exercise, the benefits are endless. By Being Active and taking care of our minds and bodies, we are showing ourselves great Kindness.
How can we be active?
Join an online exercise session
Socially-distanced exercise in the park
Have time trials against each other
Do some gardening with someone in your household
Walk up and down the stairs
Go for an evening stroll
Do some chair exercises
Blog Update
Today, we got Active about Being Active. During our Zoom meeting this morning we discussed all the ways we enjoy keeping active and how this positively affects our mental and physical wellbeing.
People shared how they use walking and yoga to help keep their minds and bodies well; how online fitness classes are helping to keep active and manage depression; and how using punch bags and weights can help reduce tension and anxiety. 
We discussed how we can make little changes to our daily lives to include more activity, from using the stairs more, to putting a bit of oomph into our cleaning whilst listening to Queen \m/ \m/
We can all make small changes in our lives to show ourselves KINDNESS, and Being Active is one way to do that.
Below are some videos and resources you might find useful
Mind – ‘5 ways to get moving and feel better’
Dr Mike Evans – ‘23 and a half hours’
Mentalhealth.org – ‘How to look after your mental health using exercise’
“Thank you for all the helpful advice, talk and links. I really appreciate them and they helped such a lot 🙂
Listening to and meeting others who are going through a similar issue really helped. It also helped to talk to people with different experiences, as it helps with practicing social interaction and listening via an online platform. This helped me overcome social anxiety and self consciousness 🙂
Thank you Julia for all the advice and extra links!”
