After a year that will go down in history for its trying conditions, Daylight Creative has teamed up with the Mental Health Foundation and the Ministry of Health to create a campaign that encourages people to continue their daily walks as an act of self-care.
Designed to change-up the well-worn routes of lockdown, and to speak to those affected by the digital divide, the Refreshing Walks project has been decal-ed through major walkways and footpaths of South Auckland.
Sporting te reo whakataukī, a children’s story and the lyrics of a song by Aotearoa artist, Tiki Taane, the campaign traces pathways for the public to enjoy, encouraging them to slow down and take a moment of mindfulness amidst the busyness of every day.
The project is running as an extension of the Mental Health Foundation’s ‘We’re Awesome, Tāmaki Makaurau’ campaign and part of their ongoing commitment to national wellbeing.
Mental Health Foundation Chief Executive Shaun Robinson says the project is intended to give South Aucklanders an opportunity to connect with each other outside.
“We know people’s wellbeing has taken a hit after the trials of 2021,” Robinson says.
“We wanted to give our South Auckland community a chance to have some fun and do some of the things we know uplift wellbeing – sing some songs, have a mindful moment or two, and share a story together. Wellbeing should feel good, it should be enjoyable, and it should be something we can all enjoy and access in our communities.
“This project gave us the opportunity to tautoko the community that showed us all such aroha and strength through the extended lockdown. We hope it brings some brightness to the days ahead as we re-enter Red and face the new challenges Omicron will bring.”
Jo Chiplin, Group Manager Primary & Community Wellbeing at the Ministry of Health, says that the initiative was a great reminder for Kiwis to check in on their mental wellbeing.
“We’ve delivered over $20 million in funding for programmes of all sizes across Aotearoa since the COVID-19 pandemic started, and the Refreshing Walks concept shows that even small ideas can make a big impact in brightening someone’s day. We hope everyone in the community gets a chance to have a wellbeing moment in the sunshine.”
“And if anyone is feeling overwhelmed, remember that you can call or text 1737 for free at any time to connect with a trained counsellor.”
Credits
Agency: Daylight Creative
Production: Hex Work Productions
Printing and installation: Blink
Photographer: Eli McCarthy
