Synapse is a group of mental health service users who come together to consider alternative methods of maintaining and enhancing mental wellbeing, offering mutual support and friendship.
To encourage participants in the group to explore creative ways of relaxing through arts, crafts and singing and to take part in activities that will rejuvenate, relax and encourage meditation, the group attended a two day retreat.
The group identified types of activities that they would find relaxing and therapeutic and asked freelance artists and sessional workers to lead them during the retreat. The activities identified included tai chi, mindfulness sessions and nature walks.
For those who attended the retreat, the benefits were numerous including enhanced emotional and spiritual wellbeing, increased relaxation, new friendships and connectivity and increased confidence and self-esteem.