Boost your mood, by releasing ‘endorphins’ our happy hormones
Reduce stress and anxiety
Increase self-esteem and confidence
Reduce your risk of depression
Walking is great for your mental health but for even more benefits try and get active in a green space if you can. Studies have shown that exercising in nature can reduce stress and boost wellbeing. Check out our list of short countryside walks in Lincolnshire to help you find your next route.
Sedentary lifestyles can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health. If you sit down in front of a computer for work all day, try and break up long periods of inactivity, with short burst of movement. A brisk walk at lunchtime is perfect, and will leave you feeling more energised in the afternoon.
Put on some of your favourite tunes and boogie in your bedroom, or have an after dinner kitchen disco. Moving to music will lift your mood, and make being active fun!
Whether you enjoy a kick about with the kids in the garden, a bike ride in the countryside, or a Zumba class at the gym is more your style, make some time to get active in a way that brings you most joy.
It’s not always easy to make lifestyle changes, make sure you recognise how well you’re doing and give yourself a mini reward when you keep it up!
Team up with a friend or family member to motivate each other, or join a sport or physical activity club or group to connect with others. If you are struggling with your mental health, you might find it beneficial to find a class aimed at people struggling with their mental health (see below for some suggestions).
Find local groups and physical activities aimed at supporting participants mental health and wellbeing by following the links below. You can find many more activities to enjoy on our Activity Finder, from led walks and walking netball, to yoga or fitness classes.
Countywide
Wellbeing Walks are short walks led by friendly volunteers. Joining a walk is a great way to get active, meet new people and explore your local area. The walks are free, and often followed by the chance for a hot drink and a chat.
Lincoln
NW Counselling Hub run this free weekly walk around Hartholme Park. The group can have a chat and reflect on their mental health whilst enjoying a leisurely walk around the park. There is also the opportunity to practice mindfulness techniques throughout the walk.
Lincoln & Mablethorpe
Team Talk is Lincoln City Foundations mental health programme for men over the age of 18. Team Talk football session is a mixed ability open session for men who may be struggling with their mental health and wants to come and enjoy a game of football with their peers.
various locations
Andys Man Club are a man’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the UK. Follow the link to find your nearest group.
Boston
This programme run by Boston United Community Foundation helps to engage adults who are experiencing mental health issues through using the positive power of sport. Sessions take place on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Jakeman Community Stadium.
various locations
Discover your inner freedom with Dance Free sessions in Lincolnshire – a space to let go and simply be. Move however you like whilst listening to music on silent disco headphones. Each session is led by a dance and movement meditation professional and take place in beautiful nature locations across Lincolnshire.
Mind have some helpful advice for getting started and utilising activity to support your mental health.
You can also find some useful advice and inspiring stories on the We are Undefeatable website.
