“It has really helped build my confidence in getting out and being able to socialise too as well motivate me to do more things in the long run”
Meet Inverclyde Bothy and discover how you can get involved in walking and cycling activities and discover the benefits for your mental health.
What activities do you offer to help boost people's mental health?
The Inverclyde Bothy offers a programme of weekly Health Walks. These are short (usually 1 hour), local walks, open to all and led by trained volunteer Walk Leaders. Our walks are a great way to get, or to stay, active. The groups are friendly and welcoming and provide a great, free way for people to meet others and to boost their mental health and social connections in a relaxed environment. In addition to our Health Walks, we also now run a weekly Buggy Walk aimed at anyone with caring responsibilities for a baby/young child.
Why is movement important for our mental health?
Moving more brings so many mental health benefits. These include: better sleep, lower levels of anxiety and depression, boosting our mood and easing stress levels. Additionally, being a bit more active can also help us to better manage long term physical health conditions which then has knock-on benefits for our mood and general wellbeing.
What is your message to encourage new people to get involved?
It’s worth coming along and giving it a go. Our volunteers are very welcoming, and we will make sure that the pace is right for you and that you feel supported. Many of walkers feel unsure at the start, especially if their feeling anxious or their mood is low – we understand it’s a big step to join a new group and put yourself out there. The good news is that we know from walker feedback that the vast majority who give it a try stick with it and get a lot from it, including improved sense of wellbeing, new friends and a sense of belonging.
Here are some quotes from a few of the Bothy walkers about their experiences of joining the group and moving more:
“It has really helped build my confidence in getting out and being able to socialise too as well motivate me to do more things in the long run”
“I have anxiety and depression and the regular walks and talking with others during the walks as well as all the lovely views have really helped.”
“I am very much enjoying time out of the house, feeling more energetic and having much more fresh air”
“I feel more motivated and have more energy”
“My confidence has received a boost and I now look forward to leaving the house and going on my walks with my new-found friends who have been a great help and inspiration to me”
“I feel fitter and less stressed”
“The buggy walk helped me get out and about after having a baby. I had post-partum anxiety and attending the walks really aided my confidence and the support was fantastic.”
Find out more about the Bothy here.
Author:
Chris Park
Publish Date:
May 10, 2024