Sunrise yoga brings serenity on World Mental Health Day

MORE than 250 people stepped onto the grass at GMHBA Stadium for a sunrise yoga session last week to celebrate World Mental Health Day.

Led by Read the Play and in partnership with Active Geelong, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and major partner Plan Group, Serenity in the Stadium aimed to link the benefits of physical activity with better mental health.

Wonder Yoga’s Sally Ferris tailored her yoga session to people off all levels of fitness and ability, encouraging attendees to focus on their wellbeing through movement and relaxation.

The event also featured activations from other local Geelong workplaces, including a Mini Movers session for kids from Leisure Networks.

Read the Play general manager Michelle Gerdtz said the team could not have asked for a more perfect morning.

“We set out to create an event on World Mental Health Day that would connect our community through physical activity while raising awareness for mental health, and today we saw that vision realised in such a powerful way.

“The sunrise over GMHBA Stadium was simply breathtaking. It added an extra layer of magic to the event and served as a perfect backdrop for the mindfulness and unity.

“Sally’s calm, nurturing presence was exactly what we needed to guide our participants through the yoga practice. She created an atmosphere of peace and connection that resonated with everyone on the oval.”

Ms Gerdtz thanked the Geelong community for their support.

“From local organisations and sponsors to every participant who showed up, this event was a success because of the strong, unified commitment to promoting mental health and wellbeing in our region.”