Sevenoaks women invited to Knole Park to run off depression

Women in Sevenoaks are invited to meet once a week for a brand new social and supportive running group to help tackle mild to moderate depression.

The friendly group begins on 24 February and will meet every Wednesday at 1pm at the Sencio cafe within Sevenoaks Leisure Centre. Each session costs £2 per person.

The ‘Up and Running Group’ is non-competitive and friendly and according to Sevenoaks Council is “for anyone who is experiencing depression, anxiety, negative mood or low self-esteem.”

It is well known that regular exercise is beneficial for mind and body,

and can help reduce tension, anxiety and sleep difficulties.

Cllr Pat Bosley, Sevenoaks District Council's Cabinet member with responsibility for healthy living, says: "Depression is a very common problem and affects about one in six people at some point in their life.

"This is a great new group which supports not only the physical health of women living and working in our District but can help you deal with negative emotions and bring you a general sense of mental wellbeing."

Sessions will start with a short walk and gentle jog around the beautiful Knole Park and will last a little over an hour and the only kit needed is comfortable clothing and a pair of suitable trainers.

Shona Campbell, an experienced trainer, will lead the group and has high hopes for the project: "I know from personal experience how helpful jogging in the fresh air can be in lifting people’s mood, and I believe a non-competitive, mutually supportive group like this is the best way to go about it."

If you are interested in taking part, contact Shona Campbell on           07710 279497 or Harriet Heal on 07855 893863 for an informal chat.