Mental Health & Wellbeing

A big thank you to the legendary Em Clohesy and the SRC superstars, for facilitating the recent RCH ‘Dance for Sick Kids’ fundraiser held during lunch at school. What a joy it was to watch so many of our students dancing their hearts out. I witnessed some incredible moves... from pirouettes, to freestyle and the classic worm! The staff dance held last assembly was definitely a happy highlight too (although some staff may have been more enthusiastic than others!).

Watching all this dance has been a great reminder of just how important physical movement is for our mental health and wellbeing. Did you know that movement releases feel-good hormones like endorphins and serotonin, which help to regulate mood, relieve anxiety, and reduce tension? Physical movement does not have to be sport specific. It can be anything that gets our body moving... nature walks, bike riding, jumping on the trampoline, and of course, dancing, just to name a few.

Some of the mental health benefits for movement include:

• Regulates Emotions: Physical activity is a proven way to help children self-regulate frustration, release nervous energy, and process big feelings. Reduction in anti-social behaviours.
• Rewires the Brain: Activity grows grey matter in key brain regions and helps rewire pathways responsible for handling stress. Improved concentration and promotion of healthy growth and development.
• Improves Sleep: Regular movement promotes better sleep, which is directly linked to mood stabilization. Lowered risk of disease and improved fitness, including coordination and movement skills.

• Builds Confidence: Achieving physical goals and mastering fundamental movement skills increases self-esteem.

   

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends children and young people do at least 60 minutes each day of moderate to vigorous physical activity that makes the heart beat faster. More is better. It doesn’t have to be a full 60 minutes at once – several shorter sessions through the day work too. At least 3 days per week, children and young people should incorporate vigorous activities and activities that strengthen muscle and bone in the 60 minutes.

See here for further information: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activity-and-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians/recommendations-for-children-and-young-people-5-to-17-years?language=en