“Once you’re facing in the right direction, all you need to do is put one foot forward.” – Zen saying
I have worked in the mental health sector for over a decade now, particularly in the area of mental health prevention and suicide prevention which is my current part time job. Over 20 years ago I lost my Dad to death by suicide which was due to situational factors as well as possibly untreated depression. I myself experience symptoms of anxiety and that was my motivation to get into practicing and teaching Dru Yoga and Meditation to calm the racing mind and still the fidgeting body. To find some stillness; physically, mentally and emotionally.
So one of the causes I have chosen to support this year is the Black Dog Institute One Foot Forward walk for mental health in October. The mission of Black Dog Institute is Science. Compassion. Action. They are the only medical research institute in Australia to investigate mental health across the lifespan and their aim is to create a mentally healthier world for everyone. 1 in 5 of us will experience symptoms of mental illness in any given year. In Australia that’s around 5 million people. And roughly 60% of these people won’t seek help. That is why I am also completing an online professional development course in Mental Health Aware Yoga with Dr Lauren Tober, a practicing Clinical Psychologist and Yoga Teacher of nearly 20 years.
If you would like to support my fundraising goal of $500 for the Black Dog Institute and my pledge to walk 100km in October visit my One Foot Forward fundraising page. I will also be accepting donations directly to add to the fundraising as part of my regular weekly yoga classes if you prefer donating by cash.
As an Act, Belong, Commit partner I will be offering a no cost “Stress Less, Relax More” workshop at the City of Bunbury Library and partnering with the South West Women’s Health and Information Centre to offer a “Mindful for Mental Health” workshop during Mental Health Week in October.
If you have been impacted and require crisis support visit Lifeline or find support and information at Beyond Blue.
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