Limerick Sports Partnership has introduced a new way of getting healthy for your mind as well as your body. Woodlands for Health is a new walking for mental health initiative for Limerick and provide an opportunity for people who experience mental health challenges in their daily lives to walk in a nature-based environment.
Research has shown that engagement with nature through outdoor activities can have a significant positive impact on a person’s health and wellbeing.
Woodlands for Health is an innovative development initiated by Coillte setting out to utilise the health value that woodland activities can provide. Limerick Sports Partnership, Limerick Mental Health Association and Mental Health Ireland have come together to bring this fantastic programme to the hills and forests of Limerick.
The details of the programme are:
- Walk every week for 12 weeks
- Meet at Arthurs Quay every Monday at 11.30am
- Bus will transport group to and from walking location (local forest/woodland)
- Group will be supported by walking volunteers and leaders
- Light lunch will be provided
Phelim Macken, Sports Co-ordinator with Limerick Sports Partnership said: “This is an exciting new programme for Limerick which is modelled on the established “Woodlands for Health” programme based in Wicklow. While an outcome of the programme is to improve participant wellbeing, this encompasses many factors including; improved quality of life, improved sleep, improved physical fitness, social functioning, personal confidence, improved awareness etc.”
For more information about Woodlands for Health contact Liam Cantwell or Elaine Shea at Limerick Sports Partnership on 061 333600 or email lcantwell@limericksports.ie or eshea@limericksports.ie. You can also contact Limerick Mental Health Association on info@limerickmentalhealth.ie.