Mental Health Awareness Week 2021
by Nutritionist Louise Bennion.
During the Global COVID-19 pandemic, millions of us have experienced a mental health problem or seen a loved one struggle over the past year.
Mental Health Matters
We all experience a struggle with mental health at one point or another in our lives. This may be work-related, academic studies, relationships, financial status or general changes as we change, grow and develop through life. As a big advocate of mental health and self-care, I believe we all need to check in with ourselves at least once a week or even once a day to help us take a step back from the stresses of everyday life, reflect on everything going on in our lives and gain some perspective and peace of mind.
This year’s theme is ‘Nature and the Environment.
It is a well-known fact that spending time in the great outdoors and getting closer to nature is crucial for our mental health. Millions of us have re-discovered that during lockdowns this year. However, this was not the case for all of us with limited access to the outside world. We want to explore what the barriers are and ensure everyone is able to share in the natural world and experience the many mental health benefits that nature has to offer.
Me Time
For me, one of my favourite ways of taking a break from everything is to put on some earphones, play some upbeat music or a podcast and go for a run (even if the sun isn’t shining). I would also advocate taking part in a local ParkRun (COVID restrictions permitting) or downloading the Couch2-5k app to encourage me to spend more time outdoors in the fresh air whilst improving my fitness and getting those endorphins pumping!
So, however you like to spend your time outdoors, whether it be going for a run, doing some gardening or planning a weekly walk and a coffee with a friend- let’s not take our natural environment for granted and take in all the mental health benefits that it has to offer!
To Follow our nutritionist, Louise Bennion, please click here https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week