Mental Health Awareness Week is taking place from 12th to 18th May 2025 and this year’s theme is one that resonates deeply with us, ‘Community.’
In a world where we’re more digitally connected than ever, it’s easy to overlook the real connections that truly enhance our lives, those formed face to face, through shared experiences, laughter, support and movement. At the heart of a thriving community is the power of being active together. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a friendly fitness class, or a gym session, physical activity isn’t simply good for your body, it’s transformative for your mind.
Moving Together: The Power of Social Connection
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we want to highlight just how important these social, active spaces are for mental wellbeing. They aren’t just about sport, they’re about belonging. Shared movement creates shared moments and those moments build friendships, confidence, and a stronger sense of self confidence.
We’re proud to offer Active Lives Community Classes which are a range of inclusive, welcoming sessions where people can move, laugh, chat and connect. Here’s a few class examples:
Beginner Pilates – a gentle exercise class designed to strengthen your core, improve posture, enhance balance and increase flexibility. It’s an excellent workout option, even for those with injuries or health conditions. No equipment is required and there’s an option to use a chair for added support.
Intro to Gym – a beginners 12-week small group exercise programme offering the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of gym training in a supportive and friendly environment. Exercise in a gym environment in a small group setting. Every class is led by a qualified instructor dedicated to guiding you every step of the way.
Move it or Lose it – Would you like to be more active make friends, have fun, feel energised or healthier? Move it or Lose it is the ideal exercise class for you! The classes have been developed by experts to help you to improve your flexibility, aerobic health and balance for greater strength.
Pickleball for Beginners – a fully inclusive sport, perfect for adults 18 years and above and ideal for all abilities. A chance to meet new people and play against other participants. A great way of keeping active, improving confidence and developing your game.
Why Being Active Boosts Mental Health
Regular physical activity has long been known to reduce anxiety, improve mood and boost self-esteem. When we move our bodies, we release endorphins, chemicals that promote a sense of happiness and calm. Exercise also improves sleep, sharpens focus and can help alleviate symptoms of depression and stress.
But when you combine physical activity with community, the benefits are amplified.
Join Us in Celebrating Community
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to take a step, big or small, towards better mental wellbeing through movement and connection. Whether it’s joining a new class, inviting a friend along, or just showing up for yourself, remember, every bit of movement matters and every person matters.
Together, through activity and community, we can all feel a little stronger, physically, mentally and emotionally.
Let’s move, connect and support each other this Mental Health Awareness Week. Find out more about the One You Cheshire East Active Lives Community Classes here.
