How small things make a big difference

When the world appears to be in turmoil, it can be easy to forget that it is the small things in our day to day lives that can make such a big difference.

That is the underling message of two important days coming up.

Wednesday 1st November is National Stress Awareness day...and whilst there are hundreds of activities, foods, and mindful approaches to reduce the impact of stress the conclusion from experts is that the most effective remedy can be as simple as regularly exercising and laughing!

Then on 13th November there is the wonderfully named World Kindness day - where everything from random, to thoughtful, acts of kindness are encouraged and applauded.

As the Mental Health Foundation points out research shows that helping others can be good for our mental health. It reduces stress, improves our emotional well-being and even benefits our physical health. In short, doing good does you good.

We all get caught up in our daily lives. Our own worries and concerns. Our own challenges and ups and downs. It is too easy to forget others are doing the same.

Talking to a friend or neighbour you haven't seen for a bit, saying a kind word to somebody who is having a bad day, smiling and saying hello, reaching out to somebody who is lonely or isolated...simple things we can do for free that can make a world of difference to the people around you.

Of course none of this is just about one day a year.

At The Walk and Talk Movement we have seen the remarkable impact that is made by people simply coming together each week for a walk in the park.

Community led walk and talks are full of smiles and laughter. Of talking about anything and everything. Of getting out of the house and active and enjoying green spaces together. Of reducing stress and being kind to each other.

Having a chat, finding out something new, listening, getting something off your chest..whatever you say you can help support the community and they can support you.

Now that is something to come together for.

Walk and talks are run by local communities for the community every Saturday at 10.30am - no bookings, no reservations, no stress - just turn up any Saturday for a warm welcome.

Here are some details of the current community walk and talk groups:

https://www.walkandtalkmovement.org/locations