Body
Mind
& Spirit has continued
to be a small but successful Project linking the cause and effect of
poor
physical health on poor mental health and vice versa. The continuing
support
(financial and practical) of the Healthy Living Initiative (HLI) is
helping us
to concentrate far more on the positive aspects of health –
keeping well in
body and mind and keeping spirits high!
This
year the
monthly taster
sessions have been more eclectic, as well as the old favourites such as
Aqua
Aerobics and Walking there has been Decluttering and Photography.
Thanks to
Shirley Douce, who with the HLI, has put together interesting and
popular
programmes.
On
the theme
of wellbeing, National
Mind commissioned some research among the Essex Minds which shows the
real
benefits of physical activity, particularly in the open air. This led
to the
“Ecotherapy“ Report which will be featured at our
AGM this year. On this theme,
a young friend of Maldon Mind, poet Daniel North, agreed to write a
piece for
us - we think it is great and we hope you like it too!
Positive
Strides
When
my mood begins to slump
and
unhappiness glows like a nuclear dump
I
like to take a walk by the rivers verge
As
my locked in, dark emotions
Play
circus music over the dirge.
Gaining
energy from flowers, the smell of fresh mud
As
promise begins to circulate around with my blood
Calming
a mindset that has shaped a block
While
relaxed boaters cheerily wave
Behind
the dusky shadow which opens the lock.
These
rods of brilliance, the Indian summer’s air
Makes
me feel so good! Nature listens to my prayer!
In
pacifying the thick dissatisfaction in my head
Repairing
myself under the rural hints
Amused
by the grunting swans, I gladly fed
But
even though I am lifted by what I see
The
path bears footprints of our individuality
Since
depression has such a random thirst
So
when you make these positive strides
Don’t
forget to consult your doctor first!
©
Daniel North
