World Mental Health Day

Hi everyone

Happy World Mental Health Day!

When we created SMASH, mental health was at the forefront of our mind when brainstorming ideas - an exercise class that was welcoming for everyone and focused on mental health. We wanted our community to come to class and feel welcome, to love your body and all the amazing things it can do, and see every class as a safe space to talk about our mental health.

So, how is your mental health? We have got to know lots of you very well over the years and have had many conversations with some of you about your own mental health. Recently we have had chats with some SMASH regulars and have been reminded how up and down our mental health can be? Some of you are feeling stronger and happier than ever but we also know that some of you have been diagnosed with stress, anxiety or depression. Some of you have found the transition from lockdown to the 'new normal' quite challenging. Others are experiencing relationship problems with partners, or friends and family that are weighing heavy on your shoulders. Some of you have recognised that your job is not what you want to be doing but you have no idea how to begin the search for a new job, or even a new career! Some of you are lonely, even when you are surrounded by people. There are a host of reasons why your mental health may be challenged right now, life is filled with highs and lows and a lot of in-between. The most important thing is recognising how you are feeling and being empowered to lean into those feelings and then taking the steps to move cautiously, carefully, hopefully... forward. We believe one of the best ways to strengthen your mental health is to understand how your mind works, and why we think the way we do. Did you know that humans have evolved to think more negatively? Are you aware that our inner saboteur is trying to protect us, even though it's usually holding us back? Are you able to kindly accept that there are days when our mind is unwell, just like our bodies are prone to sickness.

This World Mental Health Day we invite you to take some time to understand your mind and ask yourself daily how your mental health is. It's okay to acknowledge that it isn't great sometimes, this is extremely powerful information for you because when we recognise that our mind is unwell we can take the steps needed to feel better, stronger, content. The more comfortable we get talking about our own mental health, the more you will be able to help those you care about, when their mental health is low.

So, every day, ask yourself... "How is my mental health today?".

Knowledge is power and knowing how you are feeling could be one of the most powerful ways to build strength in mind and body.

Always here for you.

Sam and Ash
(She/Her and He/Him)