Support the Blackdog Institute and be in with the chance to win a one year OnePlayground membership

Competition
23 October 2024
https://oneplayground.com.au

In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, the concept of "movement as medicine" is gaining traction. Recognising the profound impact that physical activity has on mental well-being, One Playground is excited to present "Lift Your Mood," a vibrant series of events aimed at raising $10,000 for Blackdog Institute. This initiative not only promotes mental health awareness but also invites the community to come together through movement, joy, and connection. Anyone that wants to pledge a donation will also be rewarded with a raffle ticket to win a 12 month OnePlayground Play Membership.


Across the month of October - Mental Health Awareness Month - One Playground is hosting a series of events to promote physical activity, a powerful tool for improving mental health. So, where does the science behind movement and mental health lie? Engaging in physical activity triggers a multitude of responses that positively influence mental health. For instance, movement releases endorphins, often referred to as the 'feel-good hormones'. These natural chemicals act as mood-boosters, leading to feelings of happiness. As well as this, movement helps to lower cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is the body's primary stress hormone, so by lowering our cortisol levels through exercise we can alleviate anxiety and improve our mood. A study carried out by Blackdog Institute highlights the importance of exercise, revealing that even small amounts of exercise - from just one hour per week - can offer significant protection against depression, decreasing cases by 12%. 

The best part? Participating in social activities with a purpose fosters a sense of community and belonging. The Lift Your Mood events harness this power by offering a diverse range of activities designed to engage participants both physically and emotionally.

The events on offer include dance classes designed to free your emotions and embrace a new found sense of confidence, to Transformation Breathwork which promotes a deeper sense of self-connection and awareness and the 'Fight or Flight' workshop, which incorporates cognitive behavioural therapy techniques to help participants challenge unhelpful beliefs, develop effective coping strategies, and shift from a stress-driven mindset to one of confidence and focus.

All proceeds from the Lift Your Mood events will go directly to the Black Dog Institute, an organisation dedicated to understanding, preventing and treating mental health disorders. Their research programs provide invaluable support for those facing mental health challenges.

Not yet a member of OnePlayground and unable to attend? You can support the cause by donating here and be in with a chance win a 12-month OnePlayground Play membership.