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mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw In the UK this week, 13th – 19th May, it is Mental Health Awareness Week. The theme this year, chosen by the Mental Health Foundation, is " Movement: Moving More for Our Mental Health ". Physical activity is a powerful tool that can significantly boost our emotional wellbeing. Whether it's a brisk walk in nature, a dance session in your kitchen, or some tai-chi, getting our bodies moving can have a profound impact on our minds. Why Move for Mental Health? Exercise releases endorphins, natural mood elevators that combat feelings of stress and anxiety. It can also improve sleep quality, a crucial factor for mental wellbeing. Additionally, physical activity can be a form of mindfulness, helping us focus on the present moment and reduce negative thoughts. Finding Your #MomentsForMovement The beauty of this year's theme is that movement isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. There are countless ways to get active and improve your mental

"A Picture of a Loving Europe" - Powered by Dall-E 3. Remembering the End, Honouring the Fight, and Building a Brighter Future Today is Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day. It commemorates the formal acceptance by the Allied forces of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender on 8th May 1945. This marked the end of the Second World War in Europe, a conflict that ravaged the continent for nearly six years. VE Day and Liberation Day: Two Sides of the Same Coin While VE Day signifies the official surrender of Nazi Germany, many countries also celebrate Liberation Day – a commemoration of the specific moment their own land was freed from Nazi occupation. Both days are deeply significant, representing the culmination of immense struggle and sacrifice. Why is VE Day Important? VE Day is a significant moment in European history, not just for its historical weight, but also for the lessons it offers us as we navigate our own challenges. Let's explore some key takeaways

"Beltane 09 - May Queen" by *Debs* is licensed under CC BY 2.0. The sun warms our skin, the days lengthen, and a vibrant hum fills the air – summer is on the horizon! But before we fully embrace the lazy days and sunshine, many cultures around the world celebrate the transition into this season with fire, festivity, and fertility rituals. Today, we delve into the rich traditions of Beltane, a Celtic May Day festival that marks the beginning of which marks the halfway point between spring equinox and summer solstice. It hasn't escaped me that this article comes immediately after my Earth Day article. It truly is a time to think about this beautiful planet of ours and the joy and gratitude of finally bidding farewell to the cold winter and welcoming the lushness and fertility of summer, and those beautiful long Scottish summer nights. A History Steeped in Fire Beltane (pronounced "bel-tain" or "bol-tin-a") has roots stretching far back in Celtic