Finding Moments for Movement: Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

For Mental Health Awareness Week this year, we explored the vital connection between movement and mental wellbeing with the theme, #MomentsforMovement. For us, this was all about recognising the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into our daily lives to support our physical and mental health.

The Power of Movement
Research shows that regular movement can have profound effects on mental health. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting mood, energy levels, and overall cognitive function. Despite these benefits, many of us struggle to stay active due to various barriers such as busy schedules, lack of motivation, or limited access to suitable activities.

Overcoming Barriers Together
Understanding these challenges, we collaborated with a fantastic range of partners across the borough to make movement more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Our goal was to help you prioritise movement in your life through little moments, potentially discovering new hobbies that you love along the way.

We hosted a diverse programme of events throughout the week, catering to different interests and fitness levels. There was something for everyone, from energetic dance sessions with Curious Motion to serene walks with Sowerby Walkers & Ramblers. Here's a snapshot of some of the activities:

• Curious Motion: Dance workshops that brought joy and energy.
• Three Valleys Gospel Choir & Halifax Choral Society: Singing sessions that lifted spirits.
• Calder Valley Swing: Fun and dynamic swing dance classes.
• Sowerby Walkers & Ramblers: Invigorating walks exploring the beautiful local scenery (with a bonus stop at the Healthy Minds allotment!)
• Halifax parkrun & Centre Vale parkrun: Community runs to encourage a sense of achievement and camaraderie.
• Active Rainbow & Wellness Centre: Inclusive activities promoting wellness for all.
• Rock Choir: Uplifting choral performances that connected participants through music.

Another spin on Movements
​Another highlight was our collaboration with the Forum Group, who are dedicated to making change. Organized by Forum members, we spent a day in the fresh air of Woolshops during Mental Health Awareness Week, engaging with local people on the topic of mental health.

Our 'myth-busting lucky dip' prompted members of the public to think about their own attitudes towards mental health and what we need to do as a society to tackle harmful stigma. Participants took home our homemade anti-stigma fridge magnets as a reminder that we can all make a difference in raising awareness of mental health issues.

Healthy Minds Radio Celebrates #MomentsForMovement
Healthy Minds Radio dedicated a special episode to celebrate our 'Moments For Movement' campaign during Mental Health Awareness Week.

In this episode, we interview the wonderful Rebecca Slaven, founder of Inspire Motivate Transform—a community interest company she set up to share her love of dance with the people of Calderdale. Rebecca talks to Georgia about why movement is a fundamental human need and how we can all take small steps towards improving our wellbeing by finding more 'moments for movement' in our lives.

We also curated a special playlist to keep you moving! Find the playlist of tunes gathered from across the Healthy Minds community on Spotify here.

Plug in some headphones and head out for a walk, or pop on a speaker and dance around the room—whatever gets you finding moments for movement!

Thank you to our Partners
We are so grateful to the many and marvellous partners that helped make the week a success! 

As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, we encourage you to keep finding #MomentsforMovement in your everyday life. Whether it's through a new hobby, a daily walk, or joining a community group, every bit of movement counts towards a healthier mind and body. ​