A GROUP of Craven based health and fitness businesses have come together to create a schedule of free activities to help raise awareness of how mental and physical health go hand-in-hand in aid of Mental Health Awareness Week.

Led by running coach Hannah Rayner, the programme of 12 events, from May 9 to May 15, has been organised to not only help raise awareness of how physical health can promote mental health but also raise money for the Mental Health Foundation.

CrossFit Skipton, The Happiness Helper, WithM , Sandylands Fitness Centre,Dalesway Physio Pilates , Nurturing Touch, The Forest Guru, Peachy Queens, Sacred Awakenings, Peak Wellbeing, Skipton AC and HR Running Coach are all hosting free to attend, beginner friendly events in different locations around Craven showcasing their different services.

They include a hike up Buckden Pike, wild swimming in Burnsall, exercise classes, yoga, pilates, forest bathing and joining in a Parkrun.

Hannah, who started HR Running Coach after finding running massively improved her mental health said: “I fell in love with the way running made me feel, the time to myself and the feeling of achievement. I soon decided that I wanted to help and support others in discovering the many physical and mental benefits running brings.

"The activities that these amazing fitness businesses are hosting for Mental Health Awareness week are a great opportunity for people to see how physical health can promote better mental wellbeing and hopefully raise some funds for the Mental Health Foundation too.

"From a Hiit class at CrossFit Skipton, the gym in Embsay, to a wild swim with the Peachy Queens, an activewear company based in Burley in Wharfedale, and another 10 fantastic events all free to attend, we hope that we can promote mental and physical health to Skipton locals."

Chris Cummins, owner of CrossFit Skipton says “Mental health is so important in today’s world and as a health and fitness gym, we understand the importance of physical health in promoting a better relationship with mental health.

"We want physical health to be accessible for all so for this week we’re so happy to welcome anyone and everyone to our gym for our beginner friendly SWEAT Hiit Class.

"We’re so happy to be a part of this group of businesses and raise awareness of mental health in our community and of course raise money for the Mental Health Foundation too."

To book any of the events, visit https://hrrunningcoach.co.uk/2022/03/31/mental-health-awareness-week/