Lauren's Message for Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week We are hearing from different members of the team and how they find #MomentsforMovement in their lives. Today I'm going to write about my experience with running!

In April, I travelled down to London to support some of my friends and family who were running the London Marathon. Watching thousands of people running was an incredible inspiration to me. People from across the world all working to achieve the same goal. It didn't matter whether you were the first runner, last runner or somewhere in the middle! The streets were lined with people all cheering and encouraging others. This gave me the encouragement I needed to join my local Couch to 5K running group. 

Since I started running, it has increased my mood and shifted my mindset. I feel energised and gain more confidence with every run. Running has also increased my focus and productivity helping me to accomplish other tasks. In any form of exercise or physical movement, Endorphins and serotonin are released in your body - These are chemicals that can improve your mood.

I find the hardest part about exercise is getting started, It can be really difficult to find the motivation to start. Developing a routine for my runs has been key. Knowing when my runs are scheduled keeps me on track, not only holding me accountable but giving me something to look forward to as I have genuinely began to enjoy it! 

By joining my local running group I have built new connections and been encouraged every step of the way to continue on my running journey even when it is difficult. This has helped immensely and kept me running. 

If you want to start moving I would encourage you to look into the community exercise groups in your local area. if you are worried about going alone, take a friend or family member with you. Don't be scared to try something new! 

Thank you for reading, I hope this provides some encouragement and helps you find #MomentsforMovement in your life.

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