From Walking Group to Friends Walking TogetherDid you know that walking not only gives you the physical advantages of exercise but mental ones too? Research has shown that walking on a daily basis can help lessen symptoms associated with chronic mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. Walking is free and you can walk everywhere without any additional equipment. You’ll notice that the more you do it, the more good benefits you’ll notice. www.steponecharity.co.uk/benefits-walking-mental-health This quote really epitomises what walking has done for me over the last few years. Although I loved walking I didn’t really start to walk seriously, as a way to get fit both mentally and physically, until we were in the pandemic and walking was one of the few ways that we were permitted to get outside and breathe the fresh air. My solitary walks reconnected me with nature and took me to places I had been as a child and now started to rediscover like my local park and new and interesting routes in my local area. As I started to grow in confidence to venture out further, I started to join the JustBe walkers at the Lambeth location on some walks now and again. At first this was just on the odd weekend as I was also a carer from my mum at the time. As time went on the group started to develop into a core group of ladies continuing to meet every Saturday and gradually transformed from a group of walkers together to friends walking together. As we walked and talked putting the world to rights, and got to know each other we grew into a great supportive and dynamic group of friends who look out for one another. The ladies come from all walks of life with a vast array of experiences which is shared to inspire and encourage. |
Our Walking Group Leaders Selena and Audrey are always inclusive so whether you are a regular member or just joined the walk for the first time you are always made to feel welcome and among friends.
The group have met up almost every Saturday morning throughout the last 2 years despite, wind, rain and snow, and have had some fun socials and planning more for 2023 including a walking weekend away, walking theatre trips and more!
As we read in the quote above walking genuinely makes us feel good. As Stylist magazine tells us ‘This is because firstly, oxygen saturation and blood vessel growth occur in areas of the brain associated with rational thinking as well as social, physical and intellectual performance. Secondly, exercise reduces stress hormones and increases serotonin and norepinephrine, chemicals in the brain which are known to accelerate information processing.’ During and after exercise, endorphins and dopamine – more feel-good chemicals – are released into the body and brain, usually with mood-boosting effects.
So if you’ve been thinking about getting fitter and healthier and improving your mental well being then walking may be a good way to start.
If you want someone to walk with get a friend or relative to join you or come and join us on the JustBe walkers group in either the Crystal Palace or Lambeth locations and start a new journey with some great friends.
Mary George
Hi,
I am interested in the Lambeth walkers group.
I’m a regular walker and have a circle of friends who also love walking. Please can I have details of your next meet up in the Nee Year!