Outdoor activities are always important & even more so in recent times. As soon as it was possible we met outdoors for socially distanced walks & this developed into 3 different walking groups each week, a weekly lawn sports session & twice weekly cycling groups. The benefits to members were huge and continue to be so we’ve included all of these activities & more in this year’s programme.
Member Reflections ~ It was the outdoor activities I tried first, I had been suffering from loneliness for a long time & was a bit shy of people. I was a bit put off with the idea of spending a whole morning or afternoon surrounded by many people so, the outdoor activities were an excellent way to test the water. Just short walks & bike rides, with not too many people.
I hope I can communicate just how very glad I am that I gave it a try; I found a new kinship amongst the members that I walked and cycled with. When I am out with members of flourish I feel real joy, simply in being amongst people where each of us is valued, it’s so nice to be part of a group who are altogether bonding, learning & thriving. As I got older & more isolated, I somehow lost my appreciation of nature and of the fellowship of other people, the outdoor activities gave me that back. Now that I have gained confidence I am enjoying working in the clubhouse, but I am looking forward to enjoying the outdoor activities again and the day trips which are now commencing ~ there will be more on the day trips next quarter..
