Wellness: Movement

Support Group Content

Overview

The purpose of our group meetings is to provide structured support for managing mood disorders, with activities designed to foster self-awareness, education, and community connection. Meetings are held weekly, last an hour, and consist of three sections: mindfulness, sharing, and learning.

Mindfulness

Each session starts with a 5-15 minute mindfulness activity led by a volunteer from the group, who may choose from the list below or introduce another technique. Following the exercise, members share their experiences, discussing insights or feelings that emerged. Here’s a list of some mindfulness activities: Group Mindfulness.

Sharing

Participants then take turns sharing:

  • Wellness Team efforts (building or progress)

  • Metrics (such as medication adherence or mood ratings)

  • General Progress in overall wellbeing or treatment.

This segment might last 10 - 20 minutes and fosters self-awareness and community support by reflecting on personal achievements and challenges. Here’s more details on group sharing: Group Sharing.

Learning

Next is a learning segment focused on topics relevant to mental health management, led by a member or guest speaker, with members taking turns reading and discussing. This section may take 20 - 30 minutes. Here’s an overview of the learning content: Group Learning.

This week’s content is below:

Discussion Content:

Regular physical activity is crucial to maintaining overall health and well-being, influencing everything from mental clarity to cardiovascular health. It's important to recognize that there are various forms of exercise, each suited to different health needs, preferences, and physical conditions. Before starting or modifying your exercise regimen, it's essential to conduct thorough research and consult with healthcare professionals like physical therapists or fitness trainers. This ensures that your exercise plan is safe and tailored to your specific health requirements.

By focusing on the 5 S's—Support, Systems, Skills, Surroundings, and Supplies—we can develop and maintain a sustainable exercise routine that supports our long-term health.

  • Support: Having a strong support network is key for maintaining a regular exercise routine. This can include workout partners, fitness classes, or even online communities. Professional guidance from trainers or therapists can also provide motivation and ensure that your form and routine are effective and safe.

  • Systems: Creating effective systems is crucial for consistency in physical activity. This might involve scheduling regular workout times, setting reminders, or planning your exercise week with a variety of activities. Apps or wearable fitness trackers are useful tools for keeping track of your progress and sticking to your exercise goals.

  • Skills: Developing physical skills can make exercise more enjoyable and effective. Whether it's learning proper weightlifting techniques, improving your yoga poses, or mastering a new sport, acquiring skills increases your confidence and efficiency in physical activities. Workshops, classes, and online tutorials can be valuable resources.

  • Surroundings: Your environment plays a significant role in your physical activity levels. A well-organized home gym, accessible local parks, or a nearby fitness center can greatly enhance your ability to engage in regular exercise. Ensure your environment is inviting and equipped to support your fitness goals.

  • Supplies: Investing in the right equipment can enhance your exercise routine, making workouts more enjoyable and effective. Quality footwear, appropriate workout clothing, and any necessary gear specific to your activities can make a significant difference in your comfort and performance.

Examples

Jake's Transformation Through Tailored Exercise

Jake, initially overwhelmed by the idea of starting an exercise routine due to his chronic back pain, realized the necessity of physical activity for his overall health. After consulting with a physical therapist, he crafted an exercise plan specifically designed for his condition. Leveraging the 5 S's, he joined a supportive online community that shared exercise modifications and encouragement. He set up reminders on his phone to schedule his exercises, which included water aerobics and gentle yoga, and equipped his home space with necessary props like yoga mats and resistance bands. This well-structured approach not only improved Jake's physical health but also his mental clarity and emotional well-being, making his daily activities more enjoyable and less painful.

Sara's Fitness Journey with Community Support

Sara, feeling disconnected and unmotivated by solitary workouts, discovered the transformative power of community in sustaining her exercise routine. She joined a local running club where the support and camaraderie of fellow runners kept her consistently engaged. By integrating systems like shared calendars for group runs and skill-building sessions on running techniques, Sara found herself looking forward to workouts. She invested in quality running shoes and comfortable attire, which enhanced her running experience. The accessible park near her home provided the perfect environment for her daily runs, greatly enhancing her cardiovascular health and bringing a newfound zest to her fitness journey.

Discussion Questions:

  • How have you utilized support networks to improve your exercise routine, and what impact has this had on your fitness goals?

  • What systems have you established to ensure regular physical activity, and how effective have they been?

  • Which new physical skill or activity have you tried recently that has positively affected your fitness?

  • How have changes to your surroundings or environment influenced your exercise habits?

  • What are some essential supplies that have made your physical activities more practical and enjoyable?

To wrap up the meeting, include a moment for members to share their an optional weekly commitment — a specific action they plan to take in the coming week to enhance their well-being or treatment. This sharing fosters accountability and support within the group.

Afterward, allocate some time for members to socialize. This allows everyone to strengthen connections, exchange personal insights, and discuss any remaining thoughts informally, enhancing the supportive community atmosphere.

Return to: Group Schedule