parkrun for our mental health during Mental Health Awareness Week

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) is taking place from 13th to 19th May, with the theme of ‘moving more for your mental health’.

The week offers everyone the chance to find moments for movement in their daily routines and focus on the importance of being active for mental health. You can find out more about the week on the Mental Health Foundation’s website.

There is no better place to move more for mental health than parkrun! parkruns are free, community events where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. They take place every Saturday morning at 9am in over 800 locations across the UK, and 73 across Greater London. There are also over 300 junior parkruns for 4 to 14 year olds on a Sunday morning (also at 9am), with 41 being located in Greater London.

In the blog below, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, parkrun’s health partnerships lead shares more about the benefits of movement for our mental health and wellbeing.

In a world where the pace of life seems to be ever-accelerating, it is even more important that we protect our mental health. Here are some important reasons that participating in parkrun and junior parkrun can help contribute to good mental health.

1) The great outdoors
Humans are, by nature, outdoor creatures yet in our modern lives we spend a lot of time inside. Being in open spaces enables us to connect with our natural environment and can often bring a sense of peace. Try to be mindful when outside and really take in the air, the sounds, the smells and the sights around you.

2) The power of togetherness
Social isolation is a growing issue and we know that this can contribute to a number of mental health challenges such as low mood and anxiety. Connection with others has been shown to be one of the most significant determinants of health. parkrun provides the opportunity for people to come together, form lasting, meaningful relationships and feel part of a community in a really welcoming, positive non-judgemental environment where everyone is accepted.

3) ‘’Happy hormones’’
These are chemicals in our brain called endocannabinoids. Physical activity triggers their release which can help improve our mood, manage stress and pain better as well with knock on improved sleep. You may have heard this referred to as an ‘’exercise high’’, and it can be felt by those who walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate because any kind of movement can give you that ‘feel-good’ buzz.

4) Personal growth
Working towards personal goals can help motivate us, and boost our self-esteem and confidence. That’s why parkrun places so much emphasis on celebrating participation through its milestone system, which recognises those who have volunteered, walked or run a certain number of times. Of course, volunteering enables you to apply or develop your skills, builds confidence and can give you an incredible sense of purpose.

5) Making every day count
Having a predictable routine and structure can help bring purpose to our days, even more important when we are not feeling our best. Starting your Saturday with parkrun or a Sunday with a junior parkrun can help set you up in a positive mind-set to get the most out of your weekend.

6) Physical fitness
Getting physically fitter can be very empowering. You may notice new found strength, vitality and more energy. Becoming a ‘’parkrunner’’ can then have a domino effect inspiring you to improve other aspects of your lifestyle such as sleep and nutrition. Whether you walk, jog, run or volunteer you will be moving more for your mental health, and that is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself.

If you’d like to find out more about parkrun or junior parkrun and how to take part visit the parkrun website.