Exploring Prime Locations for Physical and Intellectual Relaxation | Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW)
During Mental Health Awareness Week, workers in Wellington, New Zealand, have shared their favourite outdoor locations that promote mental health and well-being, emphasising the importance of nature and green spaces.
Some popular outdoor spots in Wellington that support mental well-being include:
- Mount Victoria: Known for its panoramic views over Wellington, hiking the trails here is popular for stress relief and mindfulness.
- Te Whare Tipu, 21 Hania Street, Mount Victoria: While primarily a healthcare service location, it is situated in an area with access to nearby outdoor green spaces conducive to mental wellness.
- Wellington Botanic Gardens and Waterfront Walkways: These well-maintained green spaces are often cited by locals as restorative for mental health due to their natural beauty, walking paths, and peaceful environments.
- Local Parks and Reserves: Parks such as Otari-Wilton’s Bush native forest reserve provide immersive nature experiences that encourage contemplative walks and connection with native flora.
Although specific outdoor spots named by workers for Mental Health Awareness Week were not directly identified in the search results, the general consensus among mental health advocates and professionals in New Zealand emphasizes natural environments, such as hills, parks, and green spaces in Wellington, as beneficial for promoting mental health and well-being through activities like walking, gathering with others, or quiet reflection.
Other outdoor enthusiasts in Wellington, such as Rebekah Wilson, find solace in solo walks around Mt Victoria Lookout, while Ros Wells, the Communications Advisor, values outdoor activities for having meaningful conversations and sharing thoughts with partners and friends. The City to Sea Walkway is a suitable location for outdoor excursions after a long winter, offering local bushwalks that provide a sense of adventure and help transport individuals away from their daily routines.
The Hunting Partnerships Advisor frequently tramps with family on tracks out of Waiohine Gorge and Holdsworth Lodge, and their family also enjoys walks at Red Rocks and Rangiwahia Hut in the Ruahine Ranges. The Operations Manager finds spending time with family in the forest, a stream, and exercise to be revitalising, and Wilkies Pools, the Partnerships Advisor, finds regular immersion in nature helps refresh his body, mind, and spirit, and boosts his resilience to cope with daily challenges.
For those seeking a new outdoor adventure during Mental Health Awareness Week, Plan My Walk can help find the right track for one's abilities, check for track alerts, and suggest a gear list. The app can even send the suggested gear list to group members and emergency contacts.
In conclusion, whether it's a solo stroll or a family outing, Wellington offers numerous outdoor locations that promote mental health and well-being. From Mount Victoria to the Botanic Gardens, and local parks and reserves, these tranquil surroundings provide opportunities for stress relief, mindfulness, and connection with nature, making them ideal destinations for Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond.
[1] Accessed on 10th October 2021 from https://www.tewharetipu.org.nz/ [2] Accessed on 10th October 2021 from https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/ [3] Accessed on 10th October 2021 from https://www.health.govt.nz/
- Engaging in fitness-and-exercise activities like hiking in Mount Victoria and bushwalking along the City to Sea Walkway can contribute to mental health by reducing stress and promoting mindfulness during Mental Health Awareness Week.
- Science has shown that spending time in green spaces and nature, such as Te Whare Tipu, Wellington Botanic Gardens, local parks, Otari-Wilton’s Bush, and the Ruahine Ranges, can support mental-health by offering opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and social interactions.
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