Move Your Mind: How Physical Activity Can Boost Mental Health
As Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19th May) kicks off, it’s the perfect time to talk about how getting moving can improve our mental wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Movement: Moving more for our mental health,” shines a light on the amazing benefits of physical activity. Whether it’s a jog in the park or a family bike ride, being active can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Lichfield District Council has been spearheading new ways of supporting residents to access activity, and Council Leader Doug Pullen tells us more.
Why Physical Activity is Essential for Mental Health
Did you know that regular exercise can reduce the risk of depression by 30%? Plus, 82% of adults say physical activity is key to mental health. Despite this, more than a third of UK adults are classified as inactive, which makes them three times more likely to suffer from moderate to severe depression. Physical activity not only boosts your mood but also helps you connect with others, which is great for your mental health.
“Physical activity is a game-changer for mental health,” says Lottie Smith, Head of Policy and Strategy at Together Active. “It lifts your mood, reduces anxiety, and helps you build valuable social connections.”
Lichfield’s Active Initiatives: A Blueprint for Success
Lichfield District Council has rolled out some fantastic initiatives to get people moving, serving as a model for other communities. Here are some highlights of what they’ve done:
- Making Public Spaces Fun and Accessible
Lichfield waived fees for ParkRun events, allowing hundreds of residents to join free weekly 5k runs, walks, or jogs in local parks. This not only promotes fitness but also brings the community together.
- Turning Old Spaces into New Active Places
The council is converting a disused railway line into a traffic-free walking and cycling route. This project gives residents a safe and scenic place to be active, making it easier and more enjoyable to exercise.
- Hosting Fun Community Events
The Hello Velo cycling event offers free track racing experiences for families, making physical activity fun and accessible. These events can inspire a lifelong love of exercise and show how enjoyable staying active can be.
“Since becoming Leader of Lichfield District Council in 2019, I’ve been committed to getting more people active, more often,” says Cllr Pullen. “Our initiatives are about improving physical health, supporting mental wellbeing, and fostering a stronger, more connected community.”
How Your Community Can Get Moving
Inspired by Lichfield? Here are some tips for promoting physical activity and boosting mental health in your community:
- Create Inviting Public Spaces
Make parks, trails, and recreational areas welcoming and easy to access. Removing barriers, like fees or lack of facilities, can encourage more people to get active.
- Support Local Activities
Empower local groups to organise events and activities. Whether it’s a weekly run, a cycling event, or a neighbourhood sports day, community-led initiatives can make a big difference.
- Be Imaginative with Infrastructure
Transforming underused spaces into areas for active use, like walking paths or recreational parks, can provide new opportunities for exercise.
- Offer a Variety of Activities
Provide different options to cater to various interests and fitness levels. From dance classes to walking clubs, offering diverse activities can engage more people.
Moving Forward
As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s clear that promoting physical activity is essential for mental wellbeing. By creating environments that encourage active living, communities can help residents improve their mental health and build stronger social connections. Lichfield District Council’s initiatives show what’s possible when we prioritise movement.
“We’re delighted to see the initiative shown by Lichfield District Council and their commitment to physical activity,” adds Lottie Smith. “By creating opportunities for exercise and fostering social connections, they’re helping people lead healthier, happier lives.”