Magazines News South Africa

Breathe for mental health

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month (October) and World Mental Health Day (10 October), Psychologies magazine will include a breathing ‘kit,' to encourage readers to breathe consciously for emotional and mental health.

The kit, consisting of two red balloons and an instruction card, will be bagged with the October/November 2009 issue of the magazine. The focus of the Breathe for Wellbeing campaign is to get readers thinking, talking and coping better with their day-to-day lives through the simple act of conscious breathing. Readers are encouraged to use one of the balloons for themselves and then pass one on to a friend, colleague or loved one.

Editor Tracy Melass says, “Mental wellbeing starts with feeling calm, conscious and focused on the moment. The simple act of slowly filling your lungs and exhaling can bring about a sense of calm in seconds. Breathing is such a basic function that we take for granted its power to regulate and stimulate our emotional wellbeing. The more you breathe deeply the better, whether it's to boost your energy, sleep better, enhance concentration, release tension, ease pain or simply focus on the present moment.”

The campaign is fun, playful and interactive, while carrying a vital message about physical and mental health.

The magazine, published by woman360, focuses on self-development, better living and relationships. It aims to help women understand themselves and those around them.

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