The path to improved mental health and physical wellbeing

The current restrictions we are living under has thrown the importance of mental health into sharp focus. For many the privations of ‘life in lockdown’ mean that our interaction with others has been curtailed and our much needed contact with people is limited to standing behind them in the supermarket queue.

However, the door now stands ajar and we are beginning to see a way out of these challenging times. As the limitations begin to lift how can we use it to strengthen our mental health and physical wellbeing?

It is common knowledge that physical activity is good for our health, but for many it remains too daunting or time consuming to make it a regular part of their lives. The solution: keep it simple. A 15minute brisk-walk each day could do wonders for your mental and physical health. You do not have to take on Snowdon or even drive to the nearest park, just a simple walk around the block will do.

‘When you are trekking in nature, your mind is free of the daily stresses and you can spend your time being in the moment instead’. MIND: https://www.mind.org.uk.

Make time for it in your day. You will be amazed at the calming effects of a short walk. Give yourself time to think, to quieten the noise in your head. Look around, enjoy being ‘in the moment’ and try not to think about the tasks that are waiting for you when you get back.

Try it for two weeks and see if it makes a difference. Start simple, stick with it, and see what happens.