Walking for Wellbeing

At the last District Gathering we explored different ways of how to look after ourselves before we can support others.

Pete White, Community Link Worker in Barnsley Circuit has been running a walking group for around 18 months and has allowed it to grow as missional outreach in the community. More than ten regular members meet every Tuesday for an hour's walk and to talk, explore nature and then have a drink and sometimes a meal in a local café afterwards.

District Communications Officer, Sam Roberts chooses walking to boost her wellbeing so she joined the Hoyland and Birdwell Methodist Church walking group as they spent time walking the Trans Pennine Trail in Elsecar.

She explains: "My life is busy juggling work, a family, my children's commitments and hobbies, and for this I am grateful, however it does mean I have a busy mind and not a lot of time for myself. For me, walking is good exercise but also is a time to either process my thoughts or to catch up with a friend if we walk together.

"When I heard about the walking group in Barnsley I thought I'd go an find out what it's all about. The group made me feel very welcome and the sun even made an appearance on the walk. We followed the trail revealing beautiful scenery and it was great to chat to new people and enjoy some fresh air. Walking and talking is good for me, plus you don't realise how much you are exercising either."

Pete said: "Everyone is welcome to join us on the walk, even dogs on leads. The walking group offers a chance to improve both your physical and mental health. We walk, we talk, we explore local history and it's great to appreciate nature through the changing seasons."

If anyone would like to join Pete and the rest of the walking group, they meet every Tuesday at 11am at the Teepot Café in Elsecar Park.