This week, we’re chatting with Tina Woods, CEO of Business for Health, a coalition of businesses making preventative health a priority in the workplace.

If you could recommend One Good Thing everyone can do to improve their mental health, what would it be?

Keep moving. This doesn’t have to mean strenuous runs or daily gym sessions, but instead, making movement a part of your day-to-day life and making it work for you. Taking a Zumba class with friends, for example, or a walk at the weekend when the sun is out. Anything you enjoy that connects your mind and body.

Why is this your One Good Thing?

The effects of moving are proven. As I’ve become older, I’ve not only found more happiness through moving but scientific evidence shows that physical activity slows the rate at which you age and boosts mood. Our bodies and minds are connected, so building on small physical activity rituals and routines can also have a powerful effect on our brains and create a better state of mental health.

With the pandemic restricting people’s movement and changing our daily routines, many move a lot less than they used to, especially as people have started to work from home more often. Moving to connect mind and body can range from doing yoga or stretches at home, walking instead of taking public transport and trying out a new activity like pilates. It’s also a great to meet new people and form connections – being healthy has a lot to do with your social network too.

One Good Thing: how making time for daily movement can benefit your mental wellbeing