Movement – key to our mental & physical health & wellbeing

The Mental Health Foundation’s theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, is ‘Movement’. It’s a theme we can whole heartedly get behind!

For the vast majority of the past 200,000 years, our ancestors lived as hunter-gatherers, moving great distances in search of food, water, and safety. Because of this our bodies are designed to be moving regularly and we have evolved so that it’s not just that we can move – we MUST move to stay happy & healthy. When we are sedentary this can lead to a huge list of health issues both physical and mental – life without movement is like baking a cake without turning the oven on.

CAN A FEW MINUTES OF MOVEMENT EACH DAY REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE? 🤔

Absolutely! Even just a few minutes of activity each day can have a significant impact on our overall wellbeing. Incorporating physical activity into our daily routines can:

👌 Boost Mood: Movement triggers the release of endorphins, our body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which can instantly lift our spirits and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

🔋 Increase Energy Levels: Even brief periods of movement can enhance blood circulation and oxygen flow, leaving us feeling more alert, energized, and ready to tackle the day.

💪 Improve Physical Health: Regular movement, even in small increments, contributes to improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility, reducing the risk of chronic conditions.

🧠 Enhance Mental Clarity: Physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function and mental clarity, helping us to focus better and perform tasks more efficiently.

📆 Build Consistency: Incorporating short bursts of movement into our daily routines helps to establish a habit of regular physical activity, making it easier to maintain an active lifestyle over the long term.

So, yes, every little bit of movement counts! Whether it’s a quick walk around the block, a brief stretching session whilst the kettle boils, or a spontaneous dance break, carving out a few minutes each day for movement can make a world of difference in our overall health and wellbeing.

REMOVING BARRIERS TO MOVEMENT🚦

Here at YinYan Wellbeing CIC we really want to help EVERYONE to experience the benefits that movement offers. We strive to be positive, inclusive and welcoming regardless of background, race, characteristics, gender, sexuality, beliefs, age, ability & financial means.

Whether you are a complete yoga / pilates / cardio-dance newby, you are experiencing back, neck or shoulder pain, or are recovering from an injury, our experienced, welcoming and professional teachers will guide and support you – you are in safe hands!

In a recent survey by the Mental Health Foundation 31% of people reported they would be more physically active if they found an activity they enjoyed – so get out there and try something new! Our bodies need a variety of aerobic and strengthening activities to thrive, so be sure to mix it up!

The survey also found 29% would be more physically active if the cost of classes etc were reduced. Which is something we’re proud to have tackled with the majority of classes we offer being free for the building communities working at that property, or are open to all and are offered at a low / no cost.

Increasing your activity levels is one of the most powerful things you can do for your wellbeing. As our wise old Gran used to say “Rest is rust” and “Motion is lotion” – Making a small change can make a big difference!

Robin Ellis & Joanne Grant, YinYan Directors