A free beginner's running group for those wanting to improve or support mental wellbeing.
Currently
on hold
What is Trail Therapy?
Trail Therapy is an opportunity for people to come together and run to support mental health. Whether it’s to improve your own wellbeing and sense of belonging or to support those who struggle with mental health issues, we’re on a mission to promote the mental & physical benefits of running, to no longer make it a taboo subject and to facilitate friendships and a safe environment for those who want to run for mental health.
Statistics tell us that 1 in 6 New Zealanders have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, and this only takes into account those who have sought professional help, let alone those who suffer in silence. The chances are that if you don’t have a mental disorder yourself, you know someone who does.
Trail Therapy has been established to help those who want to improve their wellbeing through the combat of running. It’s been proven exercise, particularly running outside can enhance mental wellness by alleviating anxiety and depression symptoms, and the even greater thing is you don’t have to do long distances to reap the benefits, just a small amount of progress can have a huge impact on your state of mind.
We don't yet work alongside any other organisations, represent any mental health bodies or are, mental health professionals ourselves; we just have a wealth of experience in running and ways on improving our own personal wellbeing.
Wellbeing
We're all aware that exercise & running can help our wellbeing, and everyone could do with a pick me up on Tuesday night!
Opportunity
It will be a great opportunity to get into running with other newbies and may even make a couple of pals.
Free
That's right, no excuses...this very chilled, casual beginners run group is free! Although if you insist, we will accept hugs.
Enjoyment
Positive vibes - this is an inclusive run group, that provides a safe environment where we can have fun while we run.
Anxious Amy
Anyone who knows me well will tell you how I've battled with anxiety for most of my life and whether it's due to my genetics, history or experiences, running has always been a strong coping mechanism for me. It's now a passion of mine and a life-long hobby, but the thing with anxiety is that it's always present and it comes and goes in waves, which makes some days more difficult than others. There have been many times where running just for five minutes has felt tough and tiring and has made we want to give up, but then suddenly, the realisation hits me, the strength for just getting out there, even if it was for a matter of minutes, is a massive achievement. I then later learned that the more time I spent outside, feet pounding the trail was a big mood-enhancer and made me feel more connected and balanced. I can't guarantee that it will work this way for everyone as we're all different, but I do strongly recommend giving it a go.
The details...
Bring whatever you need to run with.
Meet every Tuesday 5:30p.m. - 6:30p.m.
Bring anyone along, dogs are definitely welcome!
Sign-up or say hello!
Please ensure you sign-up each week, as this is a new group and we'll need some rough numbers to confirm whether we will go ahead. From time to time, we will also change the location.
Also, if you're interested in sharing your story, have any ideas on how we can improve or you'd just simply like to chat, leave me a message below, can't wait to hear from you!
Quote of the week
One of those cheese balls....
“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.”
Jim Rohn