Today (10 October) marks World Mental Health Day, which aims to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health. This year’s theme is ‘make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority’.
In recent years, and especially during the pandemic, our city’s green spaces have been more important than ever in giving people a place to reflect, relax and recharge. If you’re looking for a way to give your mental health a boost whilst spending time amongst nature, here are five great ways you can improve your mental wellbeing in Newcastle’s green spaces:
Springbank Pavilion
Springbank Pavilion in Leazes Park is now home to a pilot arts and health project delivered in partnership with Newcastle Hospitals Charity. The programme includes creative workshops in the fully accessible building (delivered with local cultural organisations) and artists’ activities that can be accessed on your lunch break, in your bed on the ward, in the waiting room, or at home.
Find out more and see the full list of activities here.
Get Active
Physical activity is a great way to improve both your physical and mental wellbeing. There are lots of ways to get moving and stay active in Newcastle’s parks, from playing sport on one of the courts or pitches, to finding a fitness group in your local park. All basketball and tennis courts are free to use, just pop along and enjoy!
If you’d rather get moving with friends, there are a wide variety of fitness groups that meet and train in the city’s parks. Head to our What’s On section to see what events are taking place in your local park.
You can find out more about sport and fitness in the Newcastle’s parks here.
Enjoy a coffee with friends / family
Socialising with others can have a have a huge impact on our levels of happiness. Studies have shown that good social relationships lead to a happier life. Our Urban Green Cafes in Exhibition Park and Paddy Freeman’s Park are the perfect locations for a catch up and a cuppa with friends/family whilst enjoying some beautiful surroundings.
Order your treats to go so you can walk and talk, or enjoy a break in our outdoor seating areas and watch the world go by.
Find out more about our Urban Green Cafes here.
Find a quiet spot
Newcastle’s parks are full of quiet places to enjoy some space to yourself and take in the sights and sounds of nature. Why not bring a book and curl up by a tree, take a quiet moment on a bench looking over the Tyne, or take a stroll through your local park listening to a great podcast.
Find your local park here.
Give something back
Getting involved with your local community and spending time outdoors have been proven to have a positive impact on people’s mental health. So why not combine the two and sign up to take part in one of our regular volunteering sessions. With your help, we can make our parks the best places they can be for both people and wildlife.
Find out more and sign up today.
Read more about World Mental Health Day on the World Health Organization website.