Solent NHS Trust
About me…
I am a Diversity and Inclusion Partner (Operations and Strategy) for Solent NHS Trust. I work alongside a team of incredibly passionate and talented social justice colleagues to advance equality, diversity and inclusion matters within our organisation.
What helps me relax and refocus
Watching competitive sport, either live or on TV. If I can’t have that fix, I love immersing myself in a good novel – that’s, of course, if my son hasn’t dragged me to the gym!
My best health /wellbeing discovery is…
Walking! I used to be one of those people who uses a lift to go one floor up, even when not carrying anything heavy. Now, I can walk up to 10 miles at a time. I find that helps me re-organise my thoughts, leaving me worrying a lot less about everyday life challenges.
Health/wellbeing goals I’m working on
Wish I could say ‘a six-pack’ but that boat sailed for me a long time ago so now I am happy to settle for ‘reasonably ok physical health’ but more importantly, ‘mental stamina and health’.
Do you have a health/wellbeing story or experience to share? If so, can you tell us a little bit about it?
A few years ago, Solent NHS Trust introduced a ‘walking’ challenge, which my team joined and by default (shall I add reluctantly) meant I had to join as well. I dreaded the daily step count and update as, invariably, I was the one who recorded the lowest count. Over time, though, my step count improved and I started to actually enjoy the daily walks. The following year, I was one of the first to put my name on the list to join the walking challenge and I have not looked back since. It’s the best thing I have ever done. I can now totally see the connection between physical and mental health – just wish I had realised that much earlier, but better late than never, I suppose.