Stress Awareness Month 2025: Where in Oakham to reduce stress and find support
Since 1992, Stress Awareness Month has been observed in April to increase public awareness about the causes and impacts of stress.
Long-term exposure to stress has been linked to weakened immune system, increased risk of cardiovascular problems and increased likelihood for anxiety and depression. Stress has also been linked to an increased inclination to turn to unhealthy habits like drinking too much alcohol, smoking, and overeating.
The Stress Management Society's theme for this year is #LeadWithLove, encouraging people to approach both themselves and others with kindness, compassion and acceptance, no matter what challenges they face.
There are multiple organisations and groups in Oakham that are working to help local people reduce stress.
Pepper's - A Safe Place
Pepper's A Safe Place is situated in the centre of Oakham and has a whole schedule packed with activities and groups aiming to build community, reduce stress and foster a connection with yourself and others.
They hold regular Wellbeing Walks, Mindfulness and Meditation Workshops, a Gardening Group and Craft Café, all free of charge and set in a relaxed and welcoming setting. They also have drop-in sessions every Thursday from 12pm – 2pm, which is a great way to meet the team, find out what events are coming up and relax over a cup of tea.
Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project and MindEmbody
To reconnect with nature and yourself, the Green Corridor Project holds regular Wild Wellbeing Walks with MindEmbody, offering participants the space to exhale, reconnect and reflect. Their next walk is taking place on 17th May.
MindEmbody also offers Walk and Talk Eco-Therapy, Integrated Therapies and Wellbeing Walks.
Yoga at Easton Walled Gardens
On Saturday 26th April and alternate Saturday Mornings, Laura Jekyll will be leading a yoga class in the White Space Garden at Easton Walled Gardens. Surrounded by nature, this outdoor class is the perfect way to connect to Spring, slow down and reconnect.
This class is open to all abilities. Meet Laura at 9.15am in the coffee room for class to start at 9.30am. For more information, click here.
Yoga and Sound Retreat Day
Join Sunshine and Light for their one-day yoga and sound retreat day in Wing, just outside Oakham on Saturday 3rd May between 10.30am and 4pm.
According to the organiser, 'We will explore movement and rest to create harmony of body & mind. Enjoy yoga, a sound bath, creating mindful mandalas, a yoga nidra meditation, and breath work in the historical village of Wing. Take a walk and visit the medieval maze, one of only eight turf cut mazes left in England.'
For more information, click here.
Further support
If you or someone you know needs more support, Rutland County Council has a list of NHS and non-profit services that can be accessed by local people, including Every Mind Matters, P3 Rutland Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, RISE and various phone and text numbers to access support from home.
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