When most people think about getting active, they picture toned muscles, better sleep, and a bit more energy. But the real magic often happens where no one can see it: in the mind. Movement has this quiet, transformative power, which is not just for physical health, but a strong catalyst for improving mood, reducing stress and building resilience. It’s also something I have experienced firsthand.
When I joined the Active Essex Marketing Team back in late 2020, I was lucky enough to be a part of launching the successful Find Your Active campaign, which was in response to the rising inactivity levels across the county, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Whether it was simply getting out in the garden, taking a short walk, or going for a family bike ride, the campaign celebrated the fact that everyone can enjoy the huge benefits of being active, ‘it’s just about finding what’s right for you.’
Fast forward 5 years, and the landscape has changed again. More people than ever are seeking support for their mental health, and local services are under immense pressure. Over 25,000 people across Essex are currently in contact with specialist mental health services, yet many still overlook the small, everyday habits such as walking or stretching which can offer moments of slight relief and help them feel more in control of their emotions. Find Your Active: Move for your Mind aims to shine a light on this powerful connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing.
With 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 6 children and young people in Essex currently living with poor mental health, it’s vital that movement is recognised as a simple and accessible tool that can support emotional wellbeing. Research shows that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of depression by 30%, yet it remains as one of the most underused ways to protect our mental wellbeing.
I’m not afraid to say that I learnt this the hard way. A couple of years ago I was at a real low point and stuck in a never-ending cycle of stress and exhaustion, which seemed impossible to break. Moving my body was the last thing on my mind, yet it became the one thing that slowly helped clear my head and it gave me that ‘me time’ where I could step away from everything else. It wasn’t a quick fix by any means, but gradually over time the weight on my shoulders began to lift, and I was starting to feel like myself again. I had some reservations about going to the gym, worried that everyone would be better than me and that I wouldn’t be able to last one class, however taking part in a weights session a couple of times a week was something I started to enjoy, and going for long walks became a weekend activity with my friends. Getting outside and building up my step count, helped to reset my mind – so much so, I walked a marathon last year to raise money for charity. It’s turns out that ‘buzz’ people talk about isn’t a myth. It’s a reminder that you’re still capable of feeling good, even on the toughest of days.
This experience is what made me feel so passionate about the Find Your Active: Move for your Mind campaign. Movement can’t solve everything, but it can definitely be a powerful starting point. This campaign is about helping people recognise that even the smallest bit of movement can create a moment of calm, a sense of control, or a spark of confidence.
To strengthen this message, we’ve joined forces with Mind in Essex, bringing together their mental health expertise with our commitment to helping people discover movement that genuinely supports their wellbeing. You don’t need to be sporty or start big. Even small bursts of activity or just getting outside for a short stroll can lift your spirits, calm your mind, and build resilience.
Together, we’ll be creating opportunities across Essex for people to explore movement in ways that feel enjoyable, accessible, and mentally nourishing. From gentle walks and beginner‑friendly sessions to supportive community events, our shared aim is to help more people experience the mental health benefits of being active. By combining our strengths, we hope to empower individuals to take those first steps, find what works for them, and feel the positive impact that movement can have on everyday life.
My own experience is a reminder of why this work matters, but it’s only one story among thousands across Essex. Everyone’s journey with mental wellbeing is different, but movement has the potential to offer something positive to us all. With Find Your Active: Move for your Mind, and through our partnership with Mind in Essex, we hope to make that first step feel possible for everyone. If we can inspire more people to find their own version of active, we can help create a healthier, more resilient Essex for the future.
