Moving Your Mind Project

The Healthy Clubs Initiative was created in 2013 as part of the Healthy Ireland Framework in improving health and well-being 2013-2025. The initiative is supported by Healthy Ireland, the HSE, the National Office for Suicide Prevention and Irish Life. The aim of this initiative was to ensure that every club would become a focal point for health and well-being (GAA Community & Health Department, 2018). Through this initiative, and to meet Healthy Irelands’ goal of improving health and well-being in the community, a new program was recently developed in County Mayo.

​In partnership with the Movement Gym (Castlebar), Mayo Mental Health Association, Mayo GAA and the HSE ‘Moving your Mind’ was developed and designed to create awareness within rural communities on the connections between physical health and mental health.

 
Caroline Brosnihan
Caroline showcased the importance of nutrition for a healthy body and a healthy mind under a number of headings. 

• Nutrition for healthy Living
  
• Nutrition to Combat Obesity
  
• Nutritional Information Adults or Parents can educate the younger generations moving forward.

 
Neil Douglas
Neil talked about the impact Yoga and Stretching can have on all generations.  We live in a more sedentary environment than we have in the past.  Our movement patterns are now at an all-time low.  Neil discussed how small changes can have huge impacts on both your physical and mental outlook.  Neil also discussed the positive influence meditation can have on a person’s outlook on difficult situations.
 
​Andy Moran
Andy discussed exercise and its importance to the individual and the wider community.  He also talked about the impact clubs and societies have on rural communities.  In society where time seems to be a huge issue Andy also delved into task management and how best to fit exercise into your daily routine.  Finally he talked about the social impact of exercise within communities.