Mums rally for R U OK? day

MUMS and bubs taking part in Kangatraining workouts across the region will be asked for a gold coin donation for R U OK? Day next Thursday.

The national day of action is to remind Australians of the importance of asking others ‘are you OK?’ and to start a meaningful conversation if they spot signs that somebody may not be.

The babywearing aerobics teams of Kangatraining Bellarine, Geelong and Armstrong Creek will use the day as both a fundraiser for the cause and an opportunity to highlight its importance.

“As parents, we understand that sometimes the simple question ‘R U OK?’ will be met with an automated response of ‘I’m fine’ when really, parenting is hard so the answer might not be so simple,” Kangatraining instructor Bec Clutterbuck said.

“R U OK? encourages people to stay connected and have the difficult conversations and we believe this aligns with Kangatraining beautifully.”
Developed as a low impact, postnatal safe workout, Kangatraining means mums needn’t worry about finding a sitter or minding an unsettled baby during class because they’re worn in carriers during the workouts and are part of the action.

At a time when mothers often struggle to workout or have been traditionally warned to be cautious about it, the classes provide physical benefits for mums, an opportunity to meet others like them and get an emotional well-being boost too.

Having experienced Postnatal Depression and anxiety during her pregnancies and post birth, Ms Clutterbuck said she understands that regular exercise is as an important part of the recovery, but also helps mental health by having a connection with others.

“The classes allow for local mums to find connections and talk to others who have been or are going through similar situations and understand,” she said.

R U OK? day is on Thursday, September 8.