Mental awareness week.
This year's theme is 'movement: moving more for our mental health'. I am not going to describe the mental value of getting up off the chair, talking a walk or joining an exercise class- because as in the same way we all have our preferences for a cup of coffee, tea or jam sandwich- we all find remedies for our mental wellbeing in different places and different times depending upon a multitude of factors.
I have to explain to people, that while being active helps us mentally- I can not plan a class for mental wellbeing- I can not pencil in the exact time the class will smile, a share a joke or dissolve into laughter - these things happen because we are enjoying a once in a moment 'moment' that can not be replicated! All I can do is be welcoming, smile, pick good tunes and make sure the class isn't boring!
Sometimes just sitting in a different spot in the garden is enough, chasing a butterfly with your eyes, or taking out your anger on an ants nest, enjoying your mug of tea at the perfect temperature or people watching.
Wherever you may be, in your favourite spot, enjoying an activity or 'moment in time', look after yourself and those near to you.

It has been wonderful to welcome back three ladies, who for a multitude of reasons have been unable to get to class. 
Taking the first step to attend a class is brave- but going back is just as nerve racking.
Will there be new routines?
Will I keep up...and will the teacher be kind? 

Yes - there were new routines - but with careful teaching they 'got them' first time.
They did keep up and adjusting the class to incorporate their favourites (which I remembered) they didn't feel as if they were starting at the very beginning. 
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It was lovely to see them again- and having them back was like welcoming a long lost friend back into the 'gang'.