Mental Health Awareness Week
In support of Mental Health Awareness Week (12th-18th May) we will be offering a range of free activities across the leisure centre in Islington. This year the theme is ‘community’. Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and wellbeing.
One of the best things we can do for our mental health and wellbeing is physical activity – it's a natural mood booster. The below free activities can be booked via the booking links 5 days before the session (7 days for members).
| Date | Centre | Session | Time | Booking |
| Monday 12th May | Highbury Leisure Centre | Parent & Baby Yoga | 10am-10.55am | BOOK |
| Tuesday 13th May | Sobell Leisure Centre | Tai Chi | 9.30am-10.30am | BOOK |
| Tuesday 13th May | Finsbury Leisure Centre | Walking Football | 10am-11am | No booking required |
| Wednesday 14th May | Ironmonger Row Baths | Swim For Women | 7.30pm-8.30pm | BOOK |
| Thursday 14th May | Archway Leisure Centre | Seated Exercise | 10am-11am | BOOK |
| Friday 15th May | Cally Pool & Gym | Swim For All | 12pm-1pm | BOOK |
| Friday 15th May | Cally Pool & Gym | Swim For Fitness | 12-1pm | BOOK |
Other benefits of exercise for mental health can include:
- Boosting self-esteem and confidence
- Increasing motivation and focus
- Reducing tension, anxiety, stress and mental fatigue
- Helping to calm the mind
- Reducing loneliness
Sessions
Parent and Baby Yoga – Embrace the flow of natural body movements. Learn to develop strength, flexibility and peace of mind as your teacher leads you through a range of postures and breathing exercises.
Tai Chi – Based on deep breathing and slow movements, our Tai Chi lessons are low-impact and perfect for all ability and fitness levels.
Walking Football – Walking football is a slowed down version of the game, ideal for people who want to get fit or maintain an active lifestyle.
Swim for Women – A women only swimming session in the 15m teaching pool. The session is staffed by female lifeguards, blinds are also in place to separate the area from the main pool.
Seated Exercise – With simpler movements & lower intensity, this chair-based class is perfect for people starting their fitness journey, older adults and anyone looking to build confidence.
Swim For All – Swim for All sessions are perfect if you're looking to build your confidence, work on your strokes, float away any stress, or just simply want to enjoy a more casual swim with your family and friends.
Swim For Fitness - If you’re looking for a low-impact way to get fit and healthy, swimming could be a perfect choice. Our Swim for Fitness sessions take place in slow, medium, and fast lanes, so you can take things at your own pace.
For more information, please contact Mikael.Kiviniemi@gll.org