Physical activity
Physical activity and exercise can really boost your mental health and wellbeing. Studies have shown that exercising is a helpful way to reduce depression, stress and anxiety.
Getting active is also one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing. Learn more here about the other ways to wellbeing on our Five Ways to Wellbeing page.
Ideas and resources
NHS UK has a wide range of fitness exercises for different abilities
Find a walking route near you on the Ramblers website
Organisations and projects
Ageing Well Midlothian aims to provide a range of opportunities to encourage the over 50s in Midlothian to increase their physical activity levels. Being more active is good for your health and Ageing Well offers a wide variety of activities designed to suit all tastes.
Cycling UK manages the Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme. If you need a helping hand to get your bike into shape, this scheme provides free repair and maintenance work up to the value of £50!
Health in Mind offer a range of activity groups in Midlothian to support mental and physical wellbeing including gentle cycling, walking, outdoor gardening, and nature groups.
Mayfield and Easthouses Development Trust run the Wheelbeing Hub service, providing bike repair services to people in Midlothian.
Midlothian Active Choices (MAC) is a physical activity referral service for adults in Midlothian who are currently suffering from mild/moderate mental health conditions, weight management problems, or long term or chronic illnesses.
Mumswalk Midlothian is a walking group run by mums with experience of mental health difficulties for other mums who might be struggling.
Paths for All‘s vision is for a happier, healthier Scotland where physical activity improves the quality of life and wellbeing for all.
The benefits of spending time outdoors
Spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as lower blood pressure and boost the immune system.
To make the most of these benefits, health professionals are now able to offer a new form of prescription called a Green Social Prescription. Alongside other, traditional, treatments your health professional may prescribe spending time outdoors. Explore our information on Green Social Prescribing, as well as case studies and a list of available services in Midlothian.