How we got out more in Jan and Feb
28th February 2018
Rain, mud, ice and snow: the thing about the early months of the year is there is an awful lot of weather about. From heavy rain to snow showers and strong winds, hardly a week has gone by in the last couple of months when our outdoor sessions have not affected by some kind of inclement weather. But it hasn’t stopped us and our hardy participants from getting out more and in this, and all our blog posts this year, we’ll be catching up each month with the photos and feedback from our various projects.
“The walks with Get Out More have been a revelation for our families. Despite the freezing weather, being able to connect with nature with Annie has been such a positive experience, especially for those with mental health conditions. We have had mums who hadn’t been out of the home in months invigorated by the company, nature and exercise.”
Cath Ormorod, Barnardos
We’re loving working with the Stronger Families participants on a series of walks to Bradford beauty spots, thanks to funding from another Bradford social enterprise, Enable 2. Walking is great exercise but it’s not just good for the body, it is great for the mind too. Recent studies show that walking helps to combat depression, reduces stress and has a positive impact on mood. Even though the participants didn’t know each other beforehand we’ve enjoyed chatting together and finding things in common. One participant commented, “The best things were getting out into the fresh air and having some exercise, looking for signs of spring and getting to know other people”. Winter can be a dull and miserable time of year, but getting outdoors and getting some fresh air and hazy sunshine, amongst the snow and rain, left us all feeling upbeat.
Thanks to all the practitioners! My boy was suitably muddy & wet!!
Thank you, the girls loved it! You totally wore them out (in a good way!)
Loving the dirty faces!
As I write this the so called ‘Beast from the East’ has dumped another load of snow, transforming the scene outside. The schools are closed and kids are outside enjoying some sledging and snowman building. I’m currently alone in an empty office building, as anyone who made it in has left early to avoid the further snow forecast for later. Its time I practise what I preach, pull on those snowboots and walk back to enjoy some snow in the now lighter evenings. There is a lot to be gained from getting outdoors in winter – but we’re looking forward to spring as much as anyone else!