ENJOY YOUR MIND
From "THINC Fund Small Projects (up to £10,000)"
Go to the project
We are requesting £4,950 to deliver a holistic wellbeing programme titled “Expand Your Mind”, designed to reduce the impact of negative stress on mental health, promote physical health among marginalised communities in SW9.
We will help participants understand how stress affects all areas of life, especially mental health and offer practical mental and physical tools and skills e.g.First Aid techniques. Good mental health is closely linked to healthy choices, so our sessions will combine movement, nutrition, creativity, and connection.
What will Enjoy Your Mind (EYM) deliver:
• Twelve two-hour sessions aimed at enhancing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and physical wellbeing featuring Non-Violent Communication techniques (Google Ceri Buckmaster); gentle stretching (inspired by Tai Chi and Chi Gong walking, swimming, table tennis
• Raw Vegan cooking seminars, education about nutritional value of herbs, spices, and whole foods.
• Herbs and seeds kits to teach home gardening, promote stress relief, and build pride and self-esteem through sharing produce with neighbours and family. Massage prize bi-monthly.
• Healthy refreshments provided at each session to model affordable, nutritious options and encourage karma-free eating habits.
• Information about Massage Techniques, Essential Oils, Colour and Gemstone Therapies
• Introduction to Knitting and Crocheting
• Basic First Aid training
• Signposting to connect participants with other local services and mental health resources
• Encouraging 1-1 either text or phone call every weekly.
• Socialising activities including multi-faith (spiritual) activities, open mic and board games to foster understanding, connection, acceptance and reduce isolation.
Who it will support:
• Families affected by learning and physical disabilities, unpaid carers, LGBTQ communities.
• People experiencing unemployment, multiple health challenges, isolation, hopelessness and other mental distress, who have limited access to inclusive wellbeing activities.
• Black, Asian, and ethnic minority communities, unpaid carers, and low-income households across SW9.
What difference it will make:
*Knife crime has deeply affected the SW9 community, causing distress for families. "Enjoy Your Mind" aims to create a safe, inclusive space for residents to reconnect with themselves and others.
*The programme will ease pressure on Police, Social Services, Schools, and NHS mental health support through movement activities that aid stress regulation and wellbeing.
*Nutritional education helps manage common health issues, encourages healthier eating, and discourages drug use. Gardening and group outings foster purpose and social connections.
*Families with Special Needs gain structured, healthy experiences supporting parents and children, with opportunities for skill-building and volunteering. Low-income households benefit from sustainable living guidance and self-sufficiency support.
Why we believe “Expand Your Mind” will succeed:
Our team consists of facilitators who possess direct experience and maintain strong connections within the community. We have participated in previous sessions and consistently received favourable evaluations. The programme is collaboratively designed with local residents and is grounded in principles of joy, creativity, and care.