May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year, Nuvo Wellbeing joined the nationwide Walk This May campaign to encourage individuals and communities to take a step – quite literally – towards better mental health.
Why We’re Walking
Mental health challenges are more common than we think. In the UK, 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem each year, and stress, anxiety, and depression are among the leading causes of workplace absence. At Nuvo Wellbeing, we believe in a proactive, holistic approach to wellbeing, and walking is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost mental and physical health.
The Science Behind Walking and Mental Health
Did you know that just 30 minutes of walking a day can:
- Reduce symptoms of depression by up to 36%
- Improve self-perception, self-esteem, mood, and sleep quality
- Decrease stress and anxiety levels
- Increase brain function and creative thinking
Walking outdoors, especially in green spaces, enhances the mental health benefits even further by reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and promoting mindfulness.
Making Walking Part of Daily Life
Walking doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be easily integrated into your routine:
- Take a brisk walk during your lunch break
- Park further from your destination
- Start or end your day with a gentle stroll
- Plan weekend nature walks with friends or family
- Join a local walking group
Our own team at Nuvo Wellbeing have embraced walking this May to improve their own mental wellbeing. Millie, our Project Administrator, has been aiming to hit 15,000 steps every weekend each day, and the results speak for themselves:
“It’s really helped my mental health, boosted my mood and motivation, and made my weekends feel so much more productive.”
Join Our Free Walking Groups
As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting our community’s wellbeing, we currently offer free walking groups:
🗓 Wednesdays
🕐 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM
📍 Hornby Park, Seaton Carew
🗓 Thursdays
🕙 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
📍 Fishburn Community Centre
These sessions are open to everyone and are a great way to meet new people, get some fresh air, and focus on your mental and physical health – all at no cost.
Looking Ahead
This May has reminded us of the power of small changes, like walking, to make a big impact. As a wellbeing-focused organisation, we’re committed to expanding initiatives like this to continue supporting both our team and community in leading healthier, happier lives.
If you’d be interested in attending a walking session or want to see more of these opportunities in your area, email millie@nuvowellbeing.com.
If you or your organisation would like to help fund or participate in campaigns like Walk This May, or want to collaborate to raise awareness, please reach out to natalie@nuvowellbeing.com.
Let’s keep walking – for our minds, our bodies, and each other.
