On Sunday 1st October, Birmingham locals are being invited to join a free Tai Chi session in the park, hosted by ParkLives Birmingham and Mental Health Mates.
The session is part of ParkLives Birmingham’s partnership with Mental Health Mates – a national peer support group established by Bryony Gordon, Telegraph columnist and author of the Sunday Times bestseller ‘Mad Girl’. The network’s philosophy is simple; offer a safe space for people to walk and talk about their problems without fear of judgement.
Bryony Gordon, founder of Mental Health Mates said: “We’re really excited that ParkLives is getting behind such an important cause, and helping us to spread the message of Mental Health Mates. What started as a small idea just 18 months ago is now all across the country, and we hope that we can inspire even more people with this venture
Amy Rose, MHM Birmingham group organiser said: “Speaking from my own experience, being part of Mental Health Mates has been a great way to meet other people who have experienced the same mental health challenges that I have, and realise that ‘you’re not alone’. Now having the opportunity to get involved in ParkLives activities such as Tai Chi, is a perfect way for us to further improve our wellbeing, both physically and mentally due to the benefits of exercise.
“Our group meets on the first Sunday of every month at Boston Tea Party on Corporation Street for a cuppa and chat and this month we’re excited to welcome the ParkLives team, who will be showing us how to practice the art of Tai Chi – something I’m sure our group will really enjoy!”
Liz Lowe, ParkLives lead at Coca-Cola Great Britain, said: “Through all the stories which come back to us about ParkLives, we know how a walk in the park with others can be good for the mind, body and soul. There are so many free sessions and activities on offer in Birmingham – and up and down the country – that we hope more people will get involved in events like these and benefit from them.”
Now in its fourth year in Birmingham, ParkLives runs in 10 cities and 35 further communities nationwide and is part of a £20 million commitment by Coca-Cola Great Britain to invest in community-based programmes. Activities in the city’s parks are delivered by teams from Birmingham City Council and are designed to help to bring communities together and improve wellbeing.
To join in with the ParkLives and Mental Health Mates event, find all details at www.brummhm.eventbrite.co.uk, or simply turn up on the day.
The meeting point for the Tai Chi session is at 10am at Eastside City Park (B4 7AP) on the grassed area to the far right of the children’s play area. The group will then head to Boston Tea Party coffee shop on Corporation Street (optional).
The walking leader is Amy and the Tai Chi session leader is Josie.
