Tag Archive for: Mental Wellbeing

Mosaic Magic

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Mosaic Magic at Crawley Staying Well (CSW)

“They said it couldn’t be done…”

Apparently, completing a mosaic – tiled, grouted and finished – in a single two-hour session was a little ambitious.

Well, nobody told the wonderfully industrious crew at Crawley Staying Well.

Our latest Creative Wellbeing session saw a couple of familiar faces joined by several people coming along for the first time. Armed with tiles, glue, grout, plenty of ideas and a healthy disregard for what was supposedly achievable in two hours, everyone got stuck in.

And yes — they did it.

By the end of the session, we had a fantastic collection of completed mosaics, each one completely different and reflecting its maker’s own ideas and personality.

There was plenty of concentration, conversation and laughter along the way — and perhaps most importantly, a few people surprised themselves with just how much they enjoyed getting creative.

One participant summed it up rather brilliantly:

“If someone had told me that in my 60s, a man like me would be doing something like this, I wouldn’t have believed them!”

And that, really, is what Creative Wellbeing is all about.

You don’t need to think of yourself as creative. You don’t need any previous experience, and you certainly don’t need to be “good at art”. Sometimes it’s simply about trying something you might never normally choose to do, having a chat while your hands are busy, meeting some new people — and discovering that you’re rather better at it than you expected.

As for our reputation as the CSW Creative Wellbeing sweatshop? Entirely figurative, we promise. Crawley Staying Well is gloriously air-conditioned, so while the mosaic production line may have been working at full speed, our makers remained remarkably cool.

Two hours. Tiled. Grouted. Finished.

They said it couldn’t be done.
Turns out it absolutely can.

With  thanks to Sam and the Crawley Staying Well team or another successful and enjoyable workshop.

See the finished creations below.

Blue Skies Coaster

Fluttering Fancy Butterfly

Cute Button Snail

Shimmering Butterfly

Sparkling Silvery Fish

Winged Wonder

Bright-Eyed Early Bird!

Photos:  Sam
Artwork and Article: Chon

 

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Friendship: Good for You, Scientifically

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The Friendship Effect: Connection, health and happiness

Friendship is good for the soul and the science agrees!

Friendship can make life feel lighter. A good friend may not be able to fix what is happening, but they can listen, make us laugh, remind us who we are and help us feel less alone.

That is not simply a pleasant bonus. Social connection is increasingly recognised as an important part of both mental and physical health. Research links supportive friendships with greater happiness, resilience and a stronger sense of meaning and belonging. Friends can also help to soften the effects of stress by providing reassurance, practical help and a safe place to talk. (PubMed)

The benefits may reach further than we realise. The World Health Organization reports that loneliness and social isolation are associated with increased risks to mental and physical health, including depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Healthy social connection, on the other hand, can support wellbeing and reduce the risk of premature death. (World Health Organization)

Friendship is not a luxury.
It is one of the ways we help one another stay well.

What makes someone a good friend?

A good friend does not need to be endlessly available, perfectly wise or equipped with a kettle and emergency biscuits at all times.

Good friends listen without immediately turning the conversation back to themselves.

The strongest friendships are usually built on fairly ordinary things: trust, kindness, mutual effort and feeling able to be yourself.
Good friends listen without immediately turning the conversation back to themselves. They respect boundaries, celebrate our successes and remain honest without being cruel.

Reliability matters too. Friendship grows through repeated contact and small moments of connection — a message, a shared activity, a regular group or remembering to ask how something went. Research suggests that companionship, shared interests, emotional support and making an effort to maintain the relationship are all associated with stronger friendships and better wellbeing. (PubMed)

Friendship does not have to look one particular way

Some people thrive with a large social circle. Others prefer one or two close friends.
Some friendships last for decades, while others belong to a particular chapter of life.

Some friendships last for decades,
while others belong to a particular chapter of life.

There are friends we confide in, friends we walk with, friends who make us laugh and friends we may only see occasionally but reconnect with easily.

It is the quality and suitability of our connections, rather than simply collecting as many friends as possible, that matters.

Making new friends as an adult can feel awkward, especially after illness, bereavement, retirement, moving home or a period of poor mental health. Yet friendships often begin without a dramatic spark. They grow from being in the same place regularly, sharing an interest and having the courage to say hello more than once. For some simple, practical ideas, take a look at our earlier article, Making Friends.

It is the quality and suitability of our connections,
rather than simply collecting as many friends as possible, that matters.

A conversation at a group, workshop, volunteering activity or community event may feel small. But small connections count — and they sometimes become something much bigger.

This International Day of Friendship, perhaps it is worth sending the message, accepting the invitation or making room for one more conversation.

Friendship is not a luxury.
It is one of the ways we help one another stay well.

Want to read more?

  • World Health Organization: Social connection
    an accessible overview of how loneliness and social isolation affect mental and physical health, and why meaningful connection matters.
    (World Health Organization)
  • WHO Commission on Social Connection: Plain-language summary
    key findings from the WHO’s global report, presented in a more digestible format.
    (World Health Organization)
  • Adult friendship and wellbeing: a systematic review
    research examining how adult friendships are linked with wellbeing, happiness and a sense of belonging.
    (PubMed)
  • Social isolation and physical health in adults: a systematic review
    a closer look at the evidence connecting social isolation with poorer physical and psychological health.
    (PubMed)
  • The healing effects of social connection
    information and resources from the US Surgeon General exploring how relationships and community connection can protect health.
    (HHS.gov)

Article by Chon
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Free Mental Health Support in Surrey: You Don’t Need a Diagnosis to Get Help

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Feeling Low? You don’t need a diagnosis to get free support

Life isn’t always easy. We all have times when things feel overwhelming, stressful, lonely or simply harder than usual.

Many people assume they need a mental health diagnosis before they can ask for help. The good news is that this isn’t the case.

If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, low mood, loneliness, confidence, motivation, or just feeling a bit stuck, support is available. You don’t need a diagnosis, and you don’t have to wait until things reach crisis point.

You can refer yourself

Another common misconception is that you need to be referred by a GP or healthcare professional before you can access support.

In fact, many wellbeing services allow people to refer themselves directly.

If you feel you could benefit from some extra support, you can take that first step yourself. There’s no need to wait for a diagnosis, assessment or referral.

Sometimes reaching out early can make a big difference.

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Support isn’t just for people in crisis

Mental wellbeing affects all of us, and everyone experiences challenges from time to time.

You may find support helpful if you’re experiencing:

  • Stress or feeling overwhelmed
  • Anxiety or constant worry
  • Low mood
  • Loneliness or isolation
  • Loss of confidence
  • Difficulty coping with change
  • Relationship difficulties
  • Bereavement or loss
  • Caring responsibilities
  • Feeling stuck or lacking motivation

Many people come to wellbeing services not because they have a diagnosis, but because they want to feel better, build confidence, meet new people or learn ways to improve their wellbeing.

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Free emotional health and wellbeing support in east Surrey

If you live in Redhill, Reigate, Horley, Caterham, Merstham, Banstead, Tandridge or the surrounding areas, Waythrough Community Connections offers free support for adults aged 16 and over.

Our focus is on helping people improve their wellbeing, build confidence, make connections and work towards personal goals that matter to them.

Support includes:

  • One-to-one wellbeing support
  • Wellbeing workshops
  • Peer support groups
  • Social activities
  • Personal development sessions
  • Online and in-person opportunities
  • Signposting to other services where appropriate

Whether you’re facing a difficult time or simply looking for ways to improve your wellbeing, we’re here to help.

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Why getting support early matters

Many people wait until they’re at breaking point before asking for support.

But support isn’t only there for times of crisis.

Getting help early can help you:

  • Build resilience
  • Learn new coping strategies
  • Improve confidence
  • Feel more connected to others
  • Reduce feelings of isolation
  • Improve your overall wellbeing

Just as we look after our physical health, it’s important to take care of our mental wellbeing too.

The power of connection

Sometimes one of the most helpful things we can do is connect with other people.

People who attend community wellbeing groups often tell us they value:

  • Being listened to without judgement
  • Meeting people who understand
  • Feeling less alone
  • Learning practical wellbeing skills
  • Having something positive to look forward to

A friendly conversation, a shared activity or simply being part of a supportive community can make a real difference.

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Taking the First Step

If you’ve been wondering whether support might help, it may be worth exploring what’s available.

Remember:

✔ You do not need a mental health diagnosis.

✔ You do not need a GP referral.

✔ You can refer yourself directly.

✔ Support is available before things reach crisis point.

Everyone deserves support with their wellbeing, and nobody should feel they have to struggle alone.

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Ready to find out more?

Waythrough Community Connections provides free mental health and wellbeing support for adults aged 16+ across East Surrey.

Whether you’re looking for one-to-one support, wellbeing workshops, peer support groups or simply a place to connect with others, we’d love to hear from you.

Not based in East Surrey?

That’s okay. Community Connections services are available across Surrey, helping people improve their wellbeing, build confidence, reduce isolation, and access support when they need it.

You can find your local Community Connections service here:
https://communityconnectionssurrey.org.uk/

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How creative activities improve wellbeing

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Small acts of creativity. Big shifts in how you feel.

Creative activities can calm your mind in minutes — even if you don’t think you’re creative!

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or mentally drained?

You’re not alone — and you don’t need to be “artistic” to benefit from creativity.

Simple creative activities — like drawing, crafting, writing or even arranging flowers — can have a powerful effect on your mental wellbeing. In fact, they’re increasingly being recognised as a practical way to reduce stress, improve mood, and help people feel more like themselves again.

Creativity doesn’t require talent — just a willingness to start.

Why creativity helps your emotional wellbeing and mental health

Creative activities don’t just “pass the time” — they actively change what’s happening in your brain.

When your hands focus, your mind softens.

1. They calm your nervous system

When everything feels bottled up, creativity gives your mind a place to land.

Instead of circling worries, your attention shifts into what you’re doing — the colours, the textures, the small decisions in front of you. Your thoughts become anchored in the present, rather than drifting back to what’s stressing you out.

You don’t have to explain anything or find the right words — you can just make something. And that alone can ease the pressure.

2. They give your thoughts somewhere to go

When everything feels bottled up, creativity gives it an outlet.

You don’t have to explain yourself or find the right words — you can just make something. That process alone can ease pressure and help you process emotions more safely.

Creativity works because it gives your mind something to focus on — so it doesn’t drift back to what’s worrying you.

3. They create a sense of achievement

Finishing something — even something small — can give a real boost.

That feeling of “I made this” helps rebuild confidence, especially during times when motivation is low.

4. They help you stay present

Creative activities gently pull your focus into the here and now.

When your hands are busy — painting, knitting, shaping, writing — your mind has less space to wander into worries about the past or future. Your attention settles on the task in front of you.

It’s not about forcing your thoughts to stop.
It’s about giving them something better to focus on.

When your hands are busy — painting, knitting, shaping, writing, doodling – your mind has less space to wander into worries about the past or future.

You don’t have to be ‘good’ at it

One of the biggest myths is that creativity is only for “artistic people”.

It isn’t.

Creative wellbeing is about the process, not the outcome. No one’s grading your drawing. No one’s judging your craft project.

It’s simply about giving your mind space to breathe.

Sometimes the goal isn’t to stop your thoughts — it’s to gently guide them somewhere calmer.

Simple creative activities to support wellbeing

You don’t need loads of time or expensive materials. Start small.

Even 10–15 minutes can make a difference.

This is why creative activities are often described as “active mindfulness” – they hold your attention without needing effort.

The power of shared creativity

While creativity on your own is powerful, doing it with others can be even more impactful.

Being part of a creative group can:

  • Reduce feelings of isolation
  • Build confidence and connection
  • Create a sense of belonging

At Waythrough, activities like crafting groups and Culture Club offer a relaxed, welcoming space to explore creativity — no experience needed.

When to try something creative

Creative activities can be especially helpful when:

  • You’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed
  • Your mood is low
  • You’re struggling to switch off
  • You feel stuck or unmotivated

Sometimes, the smallest action — picking up a pen, starting a simple craft — is enough to shift how you feel.

Remember

You don’t need to be creative…  You just need to begin.

Because overwhelm doesn’t always need solving — sometimes it just needs softening.

And creativity is one of the simplest ways to start.

Other resources you might be interested in:

No artistic talents required! Check out ‘Zentangle’  on page 10 of our Winter  Waythrough to Wellbeing newsletter.

Other articles you might enjoy about mindful crafting:

Making Magic from Sunlight – Cyanotype Workshop

Crafting for Wellbeing – Summer Mosaics

Cosy Saturday Crafting

Weaving Nature – Dragonflies in Willow

Christmas Decorations Workshop

Lighting Up Christmas with Simple Gifts

Christmas Card Crafting

Create your own gratitude jar

Gratitude Mandalas and Gratitude Stones

Article: Chon Donnelly  Image credit: Novella Flowers (marbled paper)

 

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Feeling Overwhelmed? 7 simple ways to calm your mind (that actually work)

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7 practical ways to cope with stress and overwhelm

There are moments when everything just feels like too much.
Too many demands. Too many thoughts. Too little energy.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone — and more importantly, you’re not stuck like this.

Feeling overwhelmed isn’t a weakness –
it’s a signal your mind needs support, not more pressure.

The key isn’t to “fix everything” overnight.
It’s to gently regain a sense of control, one small step at a time.
When everything feels urgent, that’s usually your signal to slow down — not speed up.

When everything feels urgent,
that’s usually your signal to slow down — not speed up.

Why do we feel overwhelmed?

Feeling overwhelmed often happens when:

    • Your responsibilities exceed your mental or emotional capacity
    • Stress builds up without release
    • You’re constantly “on” with no recovery time

Your brain basically hits overload — like too many tabs open at once.

Practical ways to cope with stress and overwhelm

1. 🧩 Break things down (tiny wins only)

When everything feels massive, your brain freezes.

👉 Instead of: “Sort my life out”
    try: “Send one email”.

Small actions reduce overwhelm fast.

2. 🌬️ Use the 3–3–3 Reset

Simple grounding technique:

    • Name 3 things you can see
    • Name 3 things you can hear
    • Move 3 parts of your body

3. 📉 Lower the Bar (temporarily)

You don’t need peak performance right now.

Give yourself permission to do things:

    • Slower
    • Simpler
    • “Good enough”

This alone can cut stress massively.

4. 🗂️ Get it out of your head!

Overwhelm thrives in mental clutter.

Try a quick “brain dump”:

    • Write everything down
    • Don’t organise it yet
    • Just offload

Clarity follows quickly after.

Overwhelm doesn’t mean you’re failing.  It usually means you’ve been carrying too much for too long.

5. 🚶 Change your state physically

Stress is not just mental — it’s physical.

Even 5–10 minutes of:

    • Walking
    • Stretching
    • Fresh air

…can reset your nervous system more than overthinking ever will.

Splashing cold water on your face (or holding something cold against it) can also really help – as it can trigger the body’s “dive reflex” — a natural response that slows your h

eart rate and helps you feel calmer almost instantly.

When cold water hits the face (especially around the eyes and nose), your body triggers an automatic survival response:

    • ❤️ Heart rate slows down (bradycardia)
    • 🫁 Breathing rate reduces
    • 🧠 Nervous system shifts toward a calmer state

It’s essentially your body going: “Right, we’re underwater — conserve energy, stay calm.”

That calming effect is what helps reduce stress and overwhelm.

Splashing cold water on your face can trigger the body’s “dive reflex” – a natural response that slows your heart rate and helps you feel calmer almost instantly.

6. 🔕 Reduce input

When overwhelmed, your brain needs less, not more. Instead, try:

    • Turning off notifications
    • Stepping away from social media
    • Reducing noise and demands

7. 🤝 Talk to someone you trust

You don’t have to carry it all alone.

Sometimes saying: “I’m feeling overwhelmed right now” …is the turning point.

If it feels difficult to reach out to someone you know, helplines offer different ways to get in touch and talk things through.

If you need urgent help find specialised national helplines on our page ccwaythrough.org.uk/need-urgent-help

Surrey Safe Havens are warm and welcoming places for anyone aged 18 or over who needs urgent mental health support. They are open every day from 6pm to 11pm, including weekends and bank holidays. There’s no need for a referral or appointment, just walk in or join us online.

Find out more about our local Safe Haven in Redhill on Facebook

When overwhelm doesn’t go away

If you’re feeling overwhelmed most of the time, it might be a sign you need more support.

Reaching out — whether to a friend, peer group, or support service — is a strong and positive step.

If you can’t turn to someone you know,
helplines provide several ways to get support.

A final reflection

Overwhelm doesn’t mean you’re failing.
It usually means you’ve been carrying too much for too long.

Start small.
Breathe.
Reset.

You’re allowed to take things one step at a time.

Feeling overwhelmed isn’t a weakness — it’s a signal your mind needs support, and not more pressure.

More resources you might find useful: Impact the Air That You Breathe paperback & Kindle

Article by Cho Donnelly      Cover image from VGB Studio Etsy

 

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Tag Archive for: Mental Wellbeing

Holistic Ways to Wellbeing | Open Morning

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WHEN

Wednesday 2 September 2026

TIME

11:00am-12.30pm

VENUE

Wingfield

FACILITATED BY

Holistic Harmony CIC volunteers with Angie

ABOUT THIS SESSION

🌿 Take Time for You

Discover simple, practical ways to support your physical and emotional wellbeing in our mini workshop 11.00am-12.30pm.
Meet the Holistic Harmony CIC team, explore calming practices for future complimentary workshops.

What to Expect

    • Easy everyday wellbeing strategies

    • Shared tips and ideas

    • An introduction to complementary therapies

Everyone is welcome — whether you’re looking to feel calmer, healthier, or more energised.

WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS

Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 16.

HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN

Face-to-face with our experienced Holistic Harmony CIC volunteers at Wingfield with complimentary refreshments.

HOW TO JOIN

Spaces are limited, so please book in advance!

If you are currently registered with Waythrough, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.

If you are new to Waythrough, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Waythrough Booking Form.

Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk

After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.

For the latest information, visit Facebook: @WaythroughCC
Our national website is  Waythrough.org.uk

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Meet Your Inner Chimp

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WHEN

Tuesdays 21 & 28 July 2026

TIME

7.00pm to 9.00pm

FACILITATED BY

Angie

ABOUT THIS SESSION

Meet Your Inner Chimp is a practical and engaging introduction to the famous Chimp Model of the mind.🐵

We all have moments when our emotions seem to take over, leaving us saying or doing things we later regret.

This course explores the three key parts of the mind—the Chimp, the Human, and the Computer—and how they influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviour every day.

Through discussion and simple exercises, you’ll learn to recognise when your emotional “Chimp” is in charge, understand your personal triggers, and begin developing greater self-awareness and emotional resilience.

This is not about judging yourself or trying to suppress emotions. Instead, it’s about understanding how your mind works and learning practical ways to respond rather than react.

You’ll explore:

  • The Chimp, Human and Computer model
  • Why emotions can sometimes take over
  • Personal triggers and emotional reactions
  • The difference between emotional and rational thinking
  • Building self-awareness without self-criticism
  • Practical strategies for managing your inner Chimp

Perfect for anyone who wants to understand themselves, improve emotional wellbeing, and develop healthier responses to life’s challenges. 🐵🧠✨

WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS

Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 16.

HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN

We use the video chat service called Zoom. We can help you set this up, you don’t need to do anything now.
Watch a video on how to join Zoom video chats

HOW TO JOIN

If you are currently registered with Waythrough, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.

If you are new to Waythrough, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Waythrough Booking Form.

Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk.

After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.

Follow us on Facebook: @WaythroughCC
Our national website is:  waythrough.org.uk

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Crafty Mondays

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WHEN

Monday 18 May 2026

TIME

1.15pm to 3.45pm

VENUE

Wingfield Safe Haven

FACILITATED BY

Sam & Corinna

ABOUT THIS SESSION

Crafty Mondays at Wingfield

Take a break from the everyday and enjoy a moment of calm creativity. Step away from the stress and give yourself time to slow down, unwind, and focus on something simple and hands-on.

These relaxed monthly sessions offer a friendly space to get creative, connect with others, and try something new. Whether you’re an experienced maker or just curious to have a go, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

Each creative wellbeing session will explore a different craft (details to be confirmed), with gentle guidance from Sam & Corrina and plenty of time to chat, create, and enjoy a cuppa.

🗓 Dates: 18 May · 15 June · 20 July
⏰ Time: 1:15pm – 3:45pm
📍 Location: Wingfield

Come as you are — and leave feeling a little calmer, more connected, and maybe even a bit inspired.

WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS

Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 16.

HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN

Face-to-face with our experienced facilitators at Wingfield with complimentary refreshments.

HOW TO JOIN

If you are currently registered with Waythrough, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.

If you are new to Waythrough, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Waythrough Booking Form.

Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk

After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.

For the latest news follow us on Facebook: @WaythroughCC
Our national website is waythrough.org.uk

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Pickleball Wellbeing Session

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Free Pickleball for Mental Wellbeing run by Sport in Mind
WHEN

Every Monday, subject to seasonal holidays

TIME

2.00pm to 3.00pm

FACILITATOR

This drop in session is facilitated by Sport in Mind, your facilitator is David.

WHERE

This session takes place at

Donyngs Leisure Centre
Linkfield Lane
Redhill RH1 1DP 

You can find the venue using what3words  ///transmitted.gained.moon 

ABOUT THIS SESSION

A fun, casual drop-in Pickleball session for people experiencing mental health problems facilitated by Sport in Mind, with all abilities welcome!

Pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong—can be played as either a singles or doubles game, and is very popular as it helps achieve physical activity and for getting the psychological and social benefits that are so important to us as individuals at any age.  See more fun facts about pickleball below.

 

 

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a ping pong/badminton/tennis hybrid that is less rule-heavy and more accessible than tennis or badminton and more energetic than ping-pong.  Everyone from Tom Brady and LeBron James to Leonardo DiCaprio, Bill Gates and the Kardashians are said to be fans. A recent UK estimate put British pickleball players at 7,000 players, and counting.

For Mari Humberg, a Major League Pickleball athlete with several medals to her name, pickleball is the ultimate game to play with friends. “It’s a social sport that encourages interaction, teamwork, and friendly competition,” says Humberg.

“Even if you’re facing off against your sporting ‘enemies’, pickleball shines by offering a structured and respectful competitive environment encouraging healthy competition and even respectful trash talking, which can make it even more fun,” she adds.

What are the scientific benefits of playing pickleball?

As well as providing a social way to exercise, pickleball offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced balance and coordination, and muscle toning.

In the first serious study into the sport, research from Apple called pickleball and tennis “a win for overall health”.

Using data collected from Apple Watches worn by pickleball players, the authors of the Apple Heart and Movement Study found that while not as high intensity as tennis, pickleball players were still moving for an average of 90 minutes at 70 percent of their estimated max heart rate – which comfortably meets current weekly movement guidelines in the UK and US and leads to improved cardiovascular health.

The study also offered a mental health questionnaire, and found that signs of depression were 60.1 percent lower among frequent pickleball players than those of non-pickleball or tennis players. This backs up findings from a February 2023 study published in Frontiers in Psychology.

The study review looked at 13 papers, finding that 90.74 percent of participants were over 50 years of age and showed “significant improvements” in: personal wellbeing, life satisfaction, depression, stress, and happiness.

And while further pickleball-specific studies are needed, being active is also proven to improve balance, boost brain health, improve lifespan, and decrease your chances of osteoporosis.

Finally, while players are at risk of injury – as per any sport – it has been proven to be a low-impact way to exercise, meaning your knees and hitting elbow will thank you.

HOW TO JOIN

There is no need to book on to the session as this is a casual drop-in session open to all. A short registration form is required and can be completed online before the session here – https://www.sportinmind.org/pages/category/join-a-session.

Please feel free to contact your Sport-in-Mind rep, Amy, by email on amy.wright@sportinmind.org or call the Sport-in-Mind office on 011894 79762 if you would like any additional information.

ACCESSIBILITY AT DONYNGS LEISURE CENTRE

For full details please visit Donyngs Leisure Centre website

 

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Badminton for Wellbeing

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Free Badminton for Mental Wellbeing run by Sport in Mind
WHEN

Every Monday
Dates may vary with seasonal holidays.

TIME

1.00pm to 2.00pm

FACILITATOR

This drop in session is facilitated by Sport in Mind, your facilitator is David.

WHERE

This session takes place at

Donyngs Leisure Centre
Linkfield Lane
Redhill RH1 1DP 

You can find the venue using what3words  ///transmitted.gained.moon 

ABOUT THIS SESSION

A fun, casual drop-in Badminton session for people experiencing mental health problems facilitated by Sport in Mind, with all abilities welcome!

 

 

HOW TO JOIN

There is no need to book on to the session as this is a casual drop-in session open to all. A short registration form is required and can be completed online before the session here – https://www.sportinmind.org/pages/category/join-a-session.

Please feel free to contact your Sport-in-Mind rep, Amy, by email on amy.wright@sportinmind.org or call the Sport-in-Mind office on 011894 79762 if you would like any additional information.

 

 

ACCESSIBILITY AT DONYNGS LEISURE CENTRE

For full details please visit Donyngs Leisure Centre website

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Introduction to Mindfulness

WHEN

Monday
07 August 2023

TIME

11:00am-1:00pm

FACILITATOR

Angie & Dominic

ABOUT THIS SESSION

This workshop will introduce us to the concept of mindfulness and provide some easy to learn and practice techniques to help practice mindful behaviour which has been evidenced to support the reduction of anxiety.

WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS

Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 18.

HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN

Face-to-face with our experienced facilitators in a location central to Redhill with complimentary refreshments.

HOW TO JOIN

If you are currently registered with Richmond Fellowship, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email RedhillCC@richmondfellowship.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.If you are new to Richmond Fellowship, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Richmond Fellowship Booking Form.

Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on RedhillCC@richmondfellowship.org.uk.

After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.

For the latest information, visit Facebook:@RFEastSurreyCC
richmondfellowship.org.uk

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Healthy Habits

WHEN

Wednesdays
26 July, 02 & 09 August 2023

TIME

2.00pm to 4.00pm

FACILITATOR

Angie & Volunteers

ABOUT THIS SESSION

Join this three part course where we will work together to kick some of the unhelpful habits out of lives and looking to build and maintain new healthy habits, one step at a time.

 

 

WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS

Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 18.

HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN

We use the video chat service called Zoom. We can help you set this up, you don’t need to do anything now.
Watch a video on how to join Zoom video chats

HOW TO JOIN

If you are currently registered with Richmond Fellowship, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email RedhillCC@richmondfellowship.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.If you are new to Richmond Fellowship, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Richmond Fellowship Booking Form.

Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on RedhillCC@richmondfellowship.org.uk.

After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.

For the latest information, visit Facebook:@RFEastSurreyCC
richmondfellowship.org.uk

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