Studies have shown that spending time with nature - as long as people feel safe - can have positive effects on your body. It can lower blood pressure, stress hormone levels, boost immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2021 is Nature and YiS have developed an amazing event to get people outdoors spending time with nature.

To join #WalkYisWay, simply head out for a walk, either by yourself, or with some friends or family (following covid-19 guidelines).

Whilst you’re out for your walk:

• Take a selfie of you/ your group

• Take plenty of time to notice your surroundings, make a note of:

• 5 things you saw on your walk - things that you’d not noticed before

• 4 things you touched on your walk

• 3 things you could hear on your walk

• 2 things you could smell on your walk

• 1 thing you ate whilst you were on your walk

You can download the #WalkYisWay sheet here, once completed, we encourage you to share it across social media platforms. Alternatively, you can share your selfie and 54321 to socials. Whichever format you choose remember to tag @YisMentalHealth and use the hashtag #WalkYisWay