WALKING FOR MENTAL HEALTH

In 2017 eleven women hiked the Cape to Cape in Western Australia, 135kms to raise awareness for the power of movement in the battle against mental illness, they came for a cause and left transformed.

This year there were two groups – 16 men and women that took up the cause and pushed through everything nature could throw at them to complete the infamous Cape to Cape Track. These amazing humans were lead by Kylianne. She is a ecotherapist, counsellor, fitness industry educator and presenter, personal trainer, founder of the Move For Mental Health Initiative and The Gidget Foundation Ambassador. Kylianne is a big believer in the power of movement and nature as prevention and a coping strategy for mental illness, where the body is the vehicle to live a more fulfilled life not an object that needs to be continually perfected. So in 14 days over 250kms was walked and 33k was raised for the Gidget Foundation. This will provide 33 families with the mental health services for a year.

Cape to Cape Explorer Tours were so proud to have been able to offer guidance, support and encouragement along the way to all the participants. Hopefully everyone felt supported and reassured by having us by their side every step of the way.

What an amazing group of humans who put their bodies on the line and pushed through the pain to achieve something incredible.

DID YOU KNOW ?

Walking

1. Reduces Stress. One of the most common mental health benefits of exercise is stress relief, as exercise increases concentrations of brain chemicals that moderate our response to stress.

2. Boosts ‘feel good’ chemicals. Exercise releases endorphins which creates feelings of happiness and euphoria

3. Alleviates Anxiety. The chemicals that are released during and after exercise can help people with anxiety maintain their      sense of calm.

4. Increases Relaxation. A moderate workout can be the equivalent of a sleeping pill, even for people with insomnia.

5. Improves Self-Worth. Physical fitness can boost self-worth and improve your self-image in a positive and active way.