We’re celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week, and this year’s theme is nature. All week, we’re sharing more on our Twitter and Facebook pages about how our customers and coaches connect with nature to boost their physical and mental wellbeing.
Sarah, one of our Senior Employment Specialists, recently joined other members of the Good Work team to raise money for Miles for Refugees.
Here, she tells us more about the benefits of getting outside and connecting with nature…
Good Work has given me the opportunity to work with people who have journeyed to the UK for safety. So, inspired by my colleague Nisa who shared her plan to fundraise for the British Red Cross, I decided to join her and a group of colleagues across our Work and Wellbeing services. It was my small attempt to raise awareness and funds to support people seeking asylum, and help dispel myths around asylum and create more community cohesion.
For Miles for Refugees, our team walked and ran 160 miles in September and raised £1777.
I’m really proud of the progress I made, pushing myself to do things I didn’t think I could do – it really made me appreciate my body, and my health. Which, for someone who manages epilepsy every day, is really important.
Every day I went out into nature, it wasn’t just steps around the house, but about actively and intentionally enjoying the local countryside. I’ve continued to go on daily walks, having time in the middle of the day to spot squirrels, watch the blackbirds choose the perfect twig, listen to the robins, visit the sheep and watch the local woods change with the seasons.
It’s all time away from my laptop, to get some fresh air and a new perspective, to be mindful and present, and to get a sense of calm and look after myself.
Good Work supports people with physical and mental health conditions (including people living with severe mental illness) to find, stay and thrive in employment. We’ll work with you to manage and boost your wellbeing in and outside of work, and to access the support and opportunities you need flourish. Sign up for our free, one-to-one support.
