Black belts in karate were more than optional for the Southern Downs Regional Council’s Martial Arts for Mental Health program.
All that was needed was for participants to be ready to get physical and have fun! As part of 2022 Queensland Mental Health Week, SDRC were combatting mental health by offering a fully-subsidised self-defence course for young people aged 15 – 25 years.
Southern Downs Councillor Sheryl Windle encouraged the region’s resilient young people to exercise their emotional mindfulness with a martial arts workout.
“Checking in with yourself doesn’t come in a ‘one size fits all’ package. For some people craft, quiet activities or introspective moments are the best way to take time for mental health,” Cr Windle said.
“But what about moving, making noise and taking up space as a way to make a connection between your life and your needs?
“Martial Arts for Mental Health is a free program designed to give young people aged 15–25 the opportunity to engage in a martial arts course designed for them and the challenges life may throw at them, in a private, safe and comfortable environment.
“I encourage our young people to balance body and mind and take advantage of these free sessions.”
Martial Arts for Mental Health promotes the following:
• Alleviate stress
• Increase self-esteem
• Boost your focus
• Calls for self-reflection
• Encouraging connection to your own body
• Understanding what safety looks like to you.
• Classes will be limited to six participants per class.
Participants needed to be able to commit to a two-hour session per week for four weeks. Sessions will be scheduled based on availability and the Expressions of Interest process.
There was also be the opportunity for participants who get hooked to continue training and information will be available on local martial arts trainers. Queensland Mental Health Week is an annual awareness week that aims to shine a spotlight on individual and community mental health and wellbeing.
The theme for 2022 is ‘Awareness, Belonging, Connection’, reflecting the important factors that help people maintain positive mental health and wellbeing.
Queensland Mental Health Week 2022 is held from Saturday 8 to 16 October 2022.
