1st Oct is National Hug day and pro awareness touch month. This seems ironic as due to the current climate there are such harsh restrictions and physical touch is no longer available.
Covid infections are rising and are showing no signs of slowing down. we are seeing an increase in mental health. Alternative therapies have an important role to play in supporting the public’s mental health in aiding relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
The co-ordinator. Liz Badger, who uses the strapline ” Join the hands on revolution”. was asked if it was going ahead this year. The pandemic has shifted the focus of the campaign from physical tough to how we can touch the lives of others in situations where physical touch is not possible.
As Liz says: “We’ve seen how the heroic efforts of Sir Captain Tom have touched the hearts of the nation – and yet so many other acts of day to day kindness and support are happening and are also available online. Their impact and ripple effect I believe are equally as valuable.”
There is a facebook page with over 2400 members and is growing daily. The themes discussed are:-
- Combating loneliness and help for when self-isolating
- Self-care tips for mental health
- Online help for supporting clients
- Examples of volunteering, paying it forward and supporting other.