One step at a time

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Members of the Online Community have shared how helpful getting outside and walking has been for their mental health and wellbeing, even if it’s only a few steps around the garden or a few quiet moments in nature.

This thread is a space for anyone in the Online Community to share those moments. You’re welcome to:

  • Share when you’ve been for a walk or spent some time outside
  • Talk about how you were feeling before or after
  • Share encouraging thoughts or quotes
  • Post photos from your walk (while staying safe and not sharing identifying details)

There’s no pressure, targets, or competition. The idea is simply to encourage one another, share the small moments that help, and enjoy some of the wellbeing benefits that can come from fresh air, movement, and time spent outdoors.

  • Thanks Red Daisy, such a comprehensive list of things to do.  As I was diagnosed around this time last year and we became aware of the treatment plan my wife took it upon herself to do the bulb planting in pots and raised beds as she knew I would be having chemo starting in February.  The results were absolutely lovely- we had a splendid show and it brought much joy to both of us at a difficult time.

    I loved the response from Sir Chris Hoy’s family to his diagnosis as well - his family made a cherry tree to which they added blossom each day as he made his way through his treatment. On Sunday in Glasgow at the Tour de 4 event they created a large blossom tree for people to add their own blossom/messages - it was a big success…

    KrisPy

    Stay positive, be strong

    KrisPy  

    Older man


  • That is a fantastic set of suggestions, ! Thanks for sharing. Have you considered starting a gardening tips blog using the User Blogs feature? I'd read it if you did!

    Thanks for sharing that information about Sir Chris Hoy, KrisPy.  I didn't know his family had done that, what a lovely idea.

    All the best,
    Matthew
    Macmillan Online Community Team

  • Lovely tips Red Daisy. I have really enjoyed my garden this year and it is definitely my happy place. I can’t do huge amounts physically but I love taking cuttings and propagating new plants. I have a greenhouse and have had a good crop of tomatoes this year. I also have a couple of raised beds and have had courgettes and runner beans. I’m trying some winter potatoes as well. 

    Linda xxx

  • Hey Linda 

    It's lovely to hear that you have really enjoyed your garden this year! There's nothing better than home grown vegetables. I'm thinking I might grow some tomatoes in my garden next year - as a first time gardener I may need to ask for some tips Joy

    Good luck with your potatoes!

    Best Wishes,

    Wayne

    Macmillan Online Community Team

     

  • Morning.  We recently dig out a plum that didn't thrive and put in a cherry instead in a different part of the garden.  The grass has just started to green up again.  A lot better under the younger dogs paws on his miniature agility course. 

  • Hello, I’m Frank, 64 with Bladder cancer

    There have been times over the past few years when I’ve struggled with anxiety because it’s been a stressful rollercoaster of treatment, biopsies and results and not all good..I took the advice of a MacMillan counsellor and I did a 40 day challenge of walking one hour a day in a quiet peaceful setting..walking on my  own..I found listening to calming healing music was helpful…My daily walks became an important part of my self help regime and it really worked…I took control of my anxiety, started to feel better and was sleeping better..I strongly recommend it..and I discovered a free meditation app Medito which has a range of guided meditations which I have enjoyed and found to be very helpful…I call my routine, walking to heal Walking

    Frank

  • Hi   

    Thanks so much for sharing your “walking to heal” routine. It’s really good to read how the 40-day challenge became such an important part of your daily routine and how helpful you’ve found these peaceful, meditative walks.

    Best wishes,
    Dylan

    Macmillan's Online Community Team

  • Hi Frank.  I know what you mean about walking.  I walk my dogs in the woods every day.  It is my time and I try and leave the cancer at home.  Thanks for the info on the Medito app, will give it a go.

    Lee x

  • Hi  , I hope you and your doggos have had some good walks this week. 

    Does anyone have plans for the weekend? The wind is blowing down here in the South West, but it’s looking dry. I think a walk in the woods is on the cards for me. I enjoy taking photos of mushrooms, and they’ve just started to make their appearance.

    Here is a photo from my walk in the woods last week.

    Best wishes,
    Dylan

    Macmillan's Online Community Team

  • Hi Dylan. Went to Aviemore 2 weeks ago for the week. Did a few woodland/Loch walks. Plenty of toadstools there esp the red topped ones. Had a couple of wet days, but to be expected. Eating out a bit expensive, but my girlfriend & I eat different things. Me the less healthy stuff. Didnt see any animals, but think we saw a beavers lodge (?) that are being released there. Planning to do a walk on Sunday round Snowshill in Cotswolds. Weather forecast ok at moment. Raining in Midlands at moment. Hope you get out on your woodland walk the weekend. Loads of toadstools in woods 2 weeks ago. 

    Best wishes

    Andy.