This week was International Stress Awareness Week ( 2-6 Nov) and we arranged a special event ‘From Stress to De-Stress’ to highlight the effects stress can have on our health. The session was delivered by Dr Alka Patel. During the evening we were informed about how we can take control of our own bodies through a number of different approaches. This ranged from breathing techniques to making choices about what actions we can take in order to de – stress. Less use of mobile phones for constant viewing of news and social media as well as making a positive effort to stand or move were certainly good pointers, particularly in the present crisis. Every participant was able to relate to at least one of the suggestions given and they said how important it was for them to talk to friends and family on the phone and take some form of exercise if they can, such as walking their dogs.
Alka is a GP, Lifestyle Medicine Physician and Heath Coach and has her own website: https://dralkapatel.com/ where she gives information about her unique L.I.F.E.S.T.Y.L.E. FIRST method. There are some very interesting podcasts as well which have information on relaxation, sleep, food, exercise and much more .
Feedback from the event was very positive: ‘Alka was very impressive’ ‘It was very interesting’ ‘I felt it was both relaxed and informative, the balance was just right.’ ‘Alka knows her stuff!’
Donations from participants raised over £230 and will be going to the 3 domestic abuse charities that we support: True Honour, East Surrey Domestic Abuse Services and Banstead and Reigate Women’s Aid.
Here is a breathing technique clip from the event. Please do practise this technique for yourself.
Please do look out for further fundraising events coming from our Club and please do email us on enquiriess@gmail.com if you would like to be involved with any further events or if you are interested in joining our Soroptimist Club.