Wellbeing includes a range of different elements. Whilst the Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the state of being comfortable, healthy or happy” it is also important to recognise that it is much broader than this; it includes elements such as life satisfaction, sense of purpose and level of personal control.

 

Given the challenges following the Covid 19 pandemic, taking care of our mental wellbeing has never been more important. We have taken the opportunity to think about what is important to us here at VGA; our physical health, our mental health, and also our relationships with others. We recognise that when we take time to look after our own wellbeing, we are more able to cope with the difficulties life throws at us - and also better able to support our family, friends and those within our communities. At VGA we recognise the role that community clubs play in terms of enhancing wellbeing within the community and it is a role we take very seriously, providing a range of opportunities and support to enable individuals and families to improve their physical and mental health and social connections through sport, physical activity and volunteering. We work very closely with Rebecca Chidley from Life in Sport, as well as Strength and Conditioning practitioners at Cardiff Metropolitan University, to ensure that our team (and therefore our members) have access to the most up to date information and practice - to boost gymnastics performance and enjoyment and wellbeing more broadly.

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It is also important that in all of the work that we do, we recognise and tackle inequalities which may exist - so that the opportunities and the benefits which can be gained are more easily accessible to all. Again, we work very closely with a range of organisations and agencies, e.g. Street Games Wales to gain knowledge and develop opportunities for all and we have a number of exciting projects running, including Valleys Girls, which is free of charge to access.