By Isle of Wight Observer
During Mental Health Awareness week, The Mental Health Foundation is spotlighting the importance of physical activity for mental wellbeing, under the banner ‘Movement: Moving more for our mental health’.
The ‘Love Running Tuesday Nighters’, a group with various abilities but all passionate about the benefits of running, gather weekly. Jo Randall, of Love Running in Newport, explained: “Running brings head-space, exercise, companionship, and social engagement. We have volunteer ‘listeners’ in our runs, ready to lend an ear to anyone needing to talk.”
The enthusiastic group isn’t just about running; they’re also committed to giving back by rallying support for the Isle of Wight Youth Trust by taking part in the Isle of Wight Marathon on October 6.
Deb Morley, a foster-carer and team member, highlighted the personal impact: “Isle of Wight Youth Trust has significantly supported the mental health of the children I care for. Contributing to their cause feels like a meaningful way to give back.”
The motivation and communal spirit extend to younger members of the group, like 17-year-old Bella Matthias, and fellow runner, Lucie Dartigues. For Bella, joining the Tuesday Nighters with her mother was a game-changer during the pandemic: “It was fun, relieving stress and improving sleep,” she explained. Lucie finds solace and balance in running, especially with school pressures:
“It helps me unwind and the club keeps me consistent and social.”
You can support the group at iw.observer/tuesdaynighters.
