How Single Parents Prioritise Movement For Their Mental Health- Mental Health Awareness Week 13th-19th May 2024
This Mental Health Awareness Week, the theme is movement. In the whirlwind of single parenthood, finding moments of calm amidst the chaos can seem like an impossible feat. Yet, amidst the juggling act of raising children, managing households, and often balancing work commitments, many single parents have discovered the transformative power of movement on their mental health.
"Walking! Absolutely love it and it's had a positive impact on my mental health. I find it very calming and restorative."
The simplicity of walking has become a favourite for many single parents, offering not just physical exercise but also a chance to reconnect with nature and it’s something easy to do with their children, or alone. Single Parents Wellbeing started out as a walking group in 2016 and we love the power of walking for wellbeing.
"Home workouts and home yoga! I can fit it around work/kids so take a break if working from home to get a 20min workout in or get up extra early while the kids are sleeping."
Home workouts and yoga provide flexible options for incorporating movement into busy schedules, offering a bit of self-care even in the midst of the morning rush or late-night quiet.
"I started at the gym in September... My gym time is my time I then go home and sort the chaos of 5 daughters and the house washing, cooking, etc."
For some, the gym isn't just a place to exercise, but a place where they can reclaim time for themselves, rebuild their strength, and cultivate a sense of community.
"I love strength and conditioning training... it also has a massive impact on my mental health and my self-confidence."
Strength training isn't just about physical gains—it's about reclaiming power, both mentally and physically, and nurturing a sense of self-worth that transcends the challenges of single parenthood.
"Dancing really boosts everyone's mood and gets us away from our screens."
From impromptu kitchen dance parties to planned group fitness classes, dancing offers a joyful outlet for releasing stress, fostering connection, and embracing the simple pleasures of movement.
"I play netball. The exercise helps my mental health massively but also the social aspect of it keeps me going back and helps me enjoy it even more!"
The social connections formed through sports like netball provide a lifeline for single parents, offering not just physical activity but also a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
"We need to find a way to better support single parents to get movement into their lives."
While movement has proven to be an essential part of managing mental health for many single parents, it's crucial that society steps up to provide support and resources to ensure that all parents, regardless of their circumstances, can prioritise their mental and physical well-being.
"I like to do Yoga. It helps me calm my mind and relax my body."
Yoga emerges as a powerful tool for single parents, offering not just physical benefits but also mental clarity and relaxation amidst the chaos of daily life.
"I used to be a size 20... I love how strong I look and feel.. it’s my superpower."
Embracing fitness and bodybuilding, some single parents find not just physical transformation but also a newfound sense of strength and empowerment that goes through every aspect of their lives.
"City cycling... gets heart rate up, ad hoc HIIT type moves which are fab and energising."
Incorporating movement into everyday activities, like cycling and HIIT exercises, offers single parents a convenient and energising way to stay active amidst busy schedules.
As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, let us recognise and honour the strength of single parents who, amidst the chaos, find time to prioritise the simple act of movement, knowing the impact this has on their mental health and wellbeing.