\n‘Healthy Hearts & Minds’ involves a series of active challenges, mindfulness programs and online workshops run through the Lean in Newy app which translates good deeds into credits and discounts to use at 130 local businesses.
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\nLord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Healthy Hearts & Minds program was a fun and innovative way to improve community wellbeing while providing direct economic support for small businesses given the impacts of COVID-19.
\n\u201cWe understand that this is a challenging time with many in our community facing isolation, economic downturn and uncertainty which is affecting people’s physical and mental health,\u201d Cr Nelmes said.
\n“Healthy Hearts & Minds is run through the Lean in Newy app and features a range of challenges which can be done at home or require you to get out and use a range of facilities across the local government area like exercise equipment and walking trails.
\n\u201cChallenges include swimming 500 metres at your local pool, running on Bathers Way, doing push ups at one of City of Newcastle\u2019s outdoor fitness stations, and participating in a free online mental health workshop.
\n\u201cAs the weather warms up and we gradually emerge from lockdown, we hope the campaign will help people reset with their health, re-engage with their local environment and provide a timely boost for local businesses.”
\nHeadspace Newcastle\u2019s Community Development Officer, Byron Williams said the Healthy Hearts and Minds campaign aligns with Headspace Newcastle\u2019s theme this year of \u2018small steps start big things\u2019.
\n\u201cThis is a great initiative that will encourage our community to prioritise their physical and mental health, whilst knowing they are doing something good by supporting small local businesses,\u201d Mr Williams said.
\nSmall business owner, Grace McMahon of Gem Ceramics said she has experienced an increase in sales as a result of participating in Lean in Newy.
\n“With the support of Lean in Newy and its members, I have been able to grow my small ceramics business and even launch my website in the midst of lockdown by reaching more people,” Ms McMahon said.
\nLean in Newy is part of City of Newcastle\u2019s COVID-19 Community Economic Resilience Package.
\nDownload the Lean in Newy app free from the App Store.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"