Move More to Improve Your Mental Health: Tips for Healthcare Workers, Our Clients and those we Care For

​Working in care means long shifts and intense focus are part of your every day, so finding moments for movement can be challenging. Still, studies show that adding physical activity into our daily routines is beneficial for maintaining both physical and mental health.

For healthcare workers and the people we care for, learning to prioritise movement will not only foster personal well-being but also improve the quality of care we provide. To help you infuse more movement moments into your life, we’ve put together some easy-to-follow strategies that will promote mental health and encourage holistic wellness.

​Seize Everyday Movement Moments

Whether you're waiting for a patient's test results or taking a brief break between appointments, capitalise on these moments to move. Instead of leaning, sitting or standing still, try a simple movement like marching on the spot or pacing back and forth. These smaller moments of movement may seem like nothing, but add them up and they’ll make up significant benefits that will boost your physical and mental health.

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Set Goals You Can Easily Achieve

Get yourself a journal or notebook and set some attainable movement goals. For healthcare workers, your goals could be as simple as committing to a daily walk during your lunch break or adding stretching routines before and after your shift. You can help your clients by working with them to set movement goals that fit in with their abilities and preferences.

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Combat Prolonged Sitting

Avoid hours of sitting at desks or in meetings which will combat the negative effects of staying still for too long. You could set reminders to stand up, stretch, or take a short stroll around the office. These brief interruptions will not only rejuvenate your body but also have a refreshing effect on your mind, enhancing focus and productivity.

Make Movement More Fun

Exercise doesn't have to feel like a chore. Find activities that bring you joy and laughter, whether it's dancing to your favourite tunes, playing sports, or spending time outdoors with loved ones. Encourage the people you care for to consider fun forms of movement and find an activity that they can enjoy and do with ease.

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Move with Others

Build some relationships in your community by joining active groups and social gatherings. Instead of traditional meet-ups like coffee or going for a meal, suggest walking or group fitness activities with colleagues or clients. When you engage in movement with others this promotes accountability and creates more chances for meaningful movement-based interactions outside of work.

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Practice Mindful Movement

Be more aware of your body's movement in everyday tasks, such as walking, cleaning, or gardening. Try to notice and be grateful for the sensations you feel whilst moving and appreciate your body’s physical capabilities. Encourage mindfulness practices among your clients, and help them recognise the therapeutic benefits of being present in each movement.

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Get Back to Nature

Outside settings offer natural benefits for mental well-being. Get yourself into more green spaces, whether it's a stroll in the park, meditation in a garden, or hiking through scenic trails the tranquillity and beauty of nature provide a soothing backdrop for movement and reflection.

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Find New Ways to Move

Consider stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new ways to move your body. Whether that's trying a new fitness class in town, experimenting with a new sport, or simply looking for somewhere new to walk, by embracing novelty you could spark creativity and invigorate a new movement routine.

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Plan Times and Days to Move

When you are looking at your plans for the week, try and make room for movement. Add in a weekly walk, schedule a new group exercise class, or make plans to join others for activity-based get-togethers. If you make plans to move and stick to your schedule, you’ll be rewarded with a strong sense of anticipation and a desire to be more committed to your overall well-being.

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Whether you work in care or not, making time to move is an act of self-care and a testament to promoting overall wellness. When you add these simple strategies into your daily life, you’ll enhance your mental well-being and inspire others around you to embrace movement in their own lives. We support you and embark on this journey together, one step at a time, towards greater vitality, resilience, and better mental health.

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Your local branch provide experienced care staff who are well versed in mental health care practices. Our teams of care professionals are also encouraged to practice self-care so they can be better prepared to support and care for others.

If you are searching for quality care professionals and a support team that values the importance of good mental health, reach out to your local team today.

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