A local Salford community walking group is encouraging residents to clear their minds in the city’s greenspaces and improve mental wellbeing.
The group who are venturing outside into the cold and chilly winter mornings are providing the perfect opportunity to clear your mind.
The walking group are allowing residents to spend time with friends and family and to meet new people helping reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
The idea behind the group follows the recommendation made by the Salford NHS Trust who stated: “Walking in a group is a great way to start walking, make new friends and stay motivated.”
And with NHS research has indicated that: “One of the best things we can do for our mental health and wellbeing is to be active – it’s a natural mood booster.
“Our bodies release feel-good hormones when we’re active that can also reduce anxiety and stress and help us sleep better.”
And it seems that local community groups have taken notice of these findings, with several initiatives encouraging people to explore our local area.
Organisations such as “Recreate U” offer guided or self-led walks around Duke’s Drive Park in Monton, aiming to foster a connection to nature while promoting mental health awareness.
The group Recreate U said: “Research shows that exposing your lungs to fresh air, and the scents of flowers and plants, can help to relieve stress and anxiety.
“So, why not join our friendly group for a refreshing weekly Walk and Talk?”
And this was voiced by the CEO of Recreate U, Claire Benson who spoke about starting the project to increase physical activity amongst young girls and women.
She said: “I thought up the idea of doing ‘Walk and Talk’ with our wellbeing dog, Betsy, but including 1:1 counselling sessions just to help people feel better about themselves.”
Betsy is Claire’s dog but also helps lead the ‘Walk and Talk’ group as she is a firm favourite amongst the walkers.
Claire added: “Having a dog on the walk allows people to have that physical contact with another living being that isn’t human.
“When other people bring their little dogs it becomes a real social event.”
And by making the walking group a social event, it has encouraged Claire to become more committed to the walks and see the benefits from various participants.
Claire continued: “They make this all possible and enjoyable, we’ve all become good friends. They’re all lovely, friendly and bubbly.”
The group has gained a lot of positive responses and support, with one participant, Rena from Eccles said: “I love these walks because of the nature, the fresh air and we all just have a good chat.”
With many green spaces across Salford the simple act of walking could be the key for improving mental health across Salford.
The community group Recreate U Walks and Talks are currently free to attend, but are awaiting further donations to continue future walks.
The group are encouraging as many people to get involved, and those who wish to attend are invited to meet at the Duke’s Drive Park in Monton.
Ahead of the walk, guests are required to book – and meet at the entrance of the car park at 11:30am. Bookings can be made here.
The walks are expected to last approximately 40 minutes – with dogs welcome to join the well-being walks.
Those who attend are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, bring a water bottle and dress for the weather – sunscreen, waterproof coat.
@salfordnownews A great day for a Wellbeing walk in Monton! Recreate U Wellbeing Walks❤️🚶🏼♀️🧠 #wellbeingwalk #mentalhealth #excersize #groupwalks #groupwalks #salford #eccles ♬ original sound – Salford Now
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