Wellbeing Walks: strengthening mind, body and community

"It's nice to walk with other people, have a coffee and socialise. As a woman, it's great to be able to go to areas that you wouldn't go on your own," says Annemarie, from the Sheffield Methodist District, who has been coming regularly to the wellbeing walks with her little dog for the past three years.

These walks, which have become a cherished part of many people's weekly routines, offer far more than just physical exercise – they provide a vital outlet for improving mental health and fostering a sense of community.

The benefits of regular physical activity are well-documented, from reducing the risk of chronic illnesses to boosting mood and energy levels. For those who have recently retired or are dealing with the effects of the pandemic, these wellbeing walks provide a much-needed opportunity to get moving and improve their overall fitness.

The true value of these walks lies in their ability to address the growing concerns around mental health and social isolation. As Peter White, the Community Link Worker from the Barnsley Circuit who organises the walks, explains, "Many people come out of lockdown feeling lonely and isolated, and so the group took that on and we created a community of people."

By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, the well-being walks foster a sense of camaraderie and support. By promoting these walks, the organisers are not only improving physical health but also addressing the underlying social and mental health challenges faced by the community.

The inclusive nature of the walks is particularly noteworthy. Peter adds, "We like to accommodate, so if anyone needs to stop, anyone needs a drink, there's always a third person there to wait with that person. Even if they need to go back to their car, we'll walk them back and the walk can continue with the other volunteers." This level of care and support ensures that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate and feel valued as part of the group.

The walks also provide an opportunity for participants to explore new areas and learn about local history and heritage. They also incorporate educational and experiential elements, to make the walks more than just a physical activity – they become a means of discovering and connecting with the local community.

"We sometimes have a guide join us on the walk to take us around a local area, looking at all the historical sites and the heritage. That's proved quite popular, especially during the summer months. Sometimes we meet in a different place and go to a local nature reserve to look at the wildlife," shares Peter.

The wellbeing walks represent a holistic approach to improving both physical and mental health, while also fostering a sense of community and belonging. The simple pleasures of companionship, combined with the tangible health benefits, make the well-being walks an invaluable resource for individuals and communities alike.